The Interruptions in Life

My Bible study today was about how we often rant and rail against the obstacles, the trials, the "interruptions" of life. We just want all those inconveniences to be over so we can get back to real life. 

Guess what?  That is real life.

Life is never smooth sailing. Isn't it strange that we expect it should be? Those days of tranquility should be treated as gifts of God...but rare gifts of God. They are the places where we rest, regroup, rejuvenate, and are restored for the daily battles each of us face. However, we should not be frustrated as though they were somehow unexpected and unfair.

It is often those interruptions that afford unexpected blessings. For example, since my car died, I was not able to go out to my ailing mom in the morning, but I was able to proof-read the new file from the formatter of my new book, bringing me one step closer to publishing. I had a peaceful unrushed morning, with plenty of time to catch up on my work for the first time in two weeks.

Look at the story of the Israelites as they reached the promised land. They sent 12 spies into the land to see if it was safe for them to enter. Ten of the spies came back moaning about the giant people of the land and all the obstacles that confronted them were they to take the land as God had commanded. Did they really believe God didn't know about the obstacles? Did they presume God would make the paths only of ease and comfort?

Joshua and Caleb, the two other spies, knew better. Yes there were obstacles. There are ALWAYS obstacles. But God had commanded them to enter this land, and He would aid them in overcoming whatever they needed to overcome. The obstacles were clearly part of His plan.

All these thoughts made me face my dead car with less despair than I might have otherwise. The car was towed to the local garage. The owner called me with good news. It was a dead battery, quickly and easily replaced.

Hooray! Onward to the next little interruption. Life!
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1 Peter 4:12-13 
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.