TODAY’S INSPIRATION: BAD NEWS…

When we receive bad news of any kind, we react in different ways. Some people cry and others may shut down completely. We may scream or suffer in silence. Sometimes bad news will bring on fear and anxiety which can lead to depression. And sometimes we may pretend that we are ok even if we are not. It could be we want to protect others or that we want to appear strong. In my devotion this week, King Jehoshaphat, 2 Chronicles 20 revealed to me how we, as Christians are supposed to react to bad news. King Jehoshaphat received bad news. A mighty army was on the way to destroy his kingdom. Did King Jehoshaphat fall apart? I don’t know. Did he yell, scream, or cry? I don’t know. Was he afraid? I don’t know. What I do know is that he fasted and prayed. The Bible tells us that the people came together to seek help from God and King Jehoshaphat prayed, “0h our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do but we are looking to you for help” (V.12) Wow! He did not pretend to be brave thinking he could win this war himself. He said he was powerless. He looked to the one he knew could save them. When we receive bad news, our first instinct should be that of King Jehoshaphat. When it comes to our Father in Heaven, we should not pretend, it would be senseless to do so anyway. He already knows the bad news is coming just as He knows the outcome. It is the in-between where we have a choice in how we react to the bad news. Do we try to handle it ourselves or do we do as King Jehoshaphat did, look to God? I have tried both and I tell you looking to God is the best way to get through the bad news. When we look to God, His Good News trumps our bad news. When we look to God, He can turn bad news into good news. You may ask how is that? I am still in pain, I’m still financially struggling, I am grieving, the test results say….The last couple of weeks, the Spirit has been saying to me, “Curleen, do not look at the evidence or proof you see, look at Me who you do not see. Those things are there to show my glory in the end.” This was right on time for me, and I believe someone else out there needs to hear those words also. Yes, I know feelings are real, but if we look to God, He will sustain us. We can do (go through) all things through Christ who strengthens us. When we look to God, the weight of the problem is no longer solely on our shoulders. When King Jehoshaphat prayed, God answered him, “You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.” (2 Chronicles 20:17) I love this! In other words, God was saying, “I got this! However, He still had instructions for Jehoshaphat. He told him to take their positions, then to stand still and watch. He told him not to be afraid or discouraged. He told him that He would be with him. It is the same instructions God gives us today when bad news arrive. To trust Him. To put our faith in Him. No matter the bad news, we must pray, position ourselves, and trust God. It is ok to cry or be afraid, but don’t let the fear overcome your faith. Focus on God who is always with us. Remember you are not alone. If you hold on, I promise you God will turn that bad news into good news! Love and blessings…

“Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all you who remain of the house of Israel, you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” (Isaiah 46:4)

“I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me”  
(Philippians 4:13)

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:2)

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)