A man sees a sign in front of a house: āTalking Dog For Sale.ā
He rings the bell and the owner tells him that the dog is in the backyard. The guy goes into the backyard and sees a black mutt just sitting there.
āYou talk?ā he asks.
āOf course,ā the dog replies.
āSo whatās your story?ā
The dog looks up and says, āwell, I discovered my gift of talking quite young and I wanted to help the government, so I told the CIA about my gift and in no time they had me jetting from country to country, sitting with spies and world leaders in rooms because no one thought a dog was eavesdropping. I was one of the most valuable spies eight years running.
The jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I was not getting any younger and I wanted to settle down. So, I signed up for a job at the airport to do some undercover security work, mostly wandering near suspicious characters and listening in. There I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals. Later I had a wife, a mess of puppies, and now Iām just retired.ā
The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks the owner how much he wants for the dog.
The owner says, āTen dollars.ā
The guy says, āThis dog is amazing. Why on earth are you selling him so cheap?ā
āBecause heās a liar. He didnāt do any of that stuff!ā
I feel itās necessary for me to make a confession. Our many friends know me to be generally a kind-hearted and compassionate kind of person. Yet, what you may not know is that inside me dwells a hatred that is neither Christian or compassionate. At this Christmas season, maybe you can find forgiveness in your hearts or sympathy for my attitude. I must confess to my friends a deep rooted attitude of hatred and a propensity toward violence. Not with everyone, certainly not toward my friends and family. But there is one who has pushed me to the edge and my attitude is evil toward him.
With him, violence rises up within me. I always try to find the best in someone, but this one, this one is too much for me. I realize that he was created by God just like me. I realize that he probably has a family and friends, just like me, but his appearance and character just push me too far. In short, he bugs me. To put it bluntly ā heās ugly.
Now I realize that itās not his fault. I donāt mean to judge, please donāt judge me for judging him. But, honestly, I canāt get past it. His black beady eyes constantly shifting, his voice is like an irritating buzz in my ears. I donāt even listen to his words. I would be more content if he would just shut-up.
Heās so small, smaller than most, yet an attitude that he can conquer the world. Little manās syndrome we call it. He looks at me with such disdain. He doesnāt care what I think or what I say. His black skin just crawls with disease and filth.
You see he spends his time in the dirty places, places you and I would never go. He eats food I would never touch. A beggar by nature, he finds a smelly dumpster to be a smorgasbord of delight. I understand that we should give to the less fortunate, but I simply refuse to share my food with him. I would rather he starve than touch my food. When he sees my food I cover it from his eyes. I donāt even want him looking at me. He repulses me. I donāt even feel remorse for my hatred. I simply want him dead and removed from the earth.
He spends his days in the most disgusting and dark places, places an ordinary white man would never dare to go, yet he comes to me and sits near me and occasionally touches me. I donāt want him to touch me or be near me. Heās here, heās there, he moves around the room like an invited guest. He eats my food when Iām not looking, Iāve even seen him drink from my cup and Iām so repulsed that I dump it down the drain rather than touch it to my lips again. I want him out of my house but he refuses to go. I want him gone. I want him dead.
He even touches my wife and my children, like an intimate friend. Hatred rises up in me and in them. Has he no sense of decency? This is my family! This is my home! Yet he is near us and touches in ways that boil my blood. They have no compassion either. They have learned to hate him too. We attempt to ignore him whenever possible. But there comes a time, when his pastiness overwhelms one of us and we will reach for the nearest fly swatter and kill him in an instant.
Faith in the Storm: Finding Peace When Life Gets Chaotic
Life has a way of throwing storms at us when we least expect them. Whether it’s a sudden health crisis, financial strain, relationship struggles, or an unexpected turn of events, chaos can sweep in like a tidal wave, leaving us gasping for air. In these moments, faith becomes not just a lifeline but an anchor, holding us steady in the midst of turmoil.
The Eye of the Storm
There is a phenomenon in nature called the eye of the storm. At the center of a hurricane, amidst the raging winds and rain, there exists a pocket of calm. Itās a reminder that even within the fiercest storms, peace is possible. For those who follow Christ, this peace is not a fleeting emotion but a profound reality. Jesus said, āPeace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.ā (John 14:27)
When life feels chaotic, God offers us a refuge in His presence. He doesnāt always calm the storm immediately, but He promises to calm our hearts. It is in leaning into Him, pressing into His word, and surrendering our fears that we find a peace that transcends understanding.
Finding Peace in Practical Ways
Stay Grounded in Scripture: When the world feels like itās spinning, the Word of God is a firm foundation. Verses like āBe still, and know that I am Godā (Psalm 46:10) and āThe Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.ā(Exodus 14:14) are not just comforting words but powerful truths to declare over your situation.
Pray Through the Panic: Itās natural to feel anxious when life feels out of control. But instead of letting anxiety take over, turn those feelings into prayer. Pour out your heart to God, even if all you can muster is a whispered āHelp me, Lord.ā He hears every cry and is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).
Embrace Community: We were never meant to weather storms alone. Share your burdens with trusted friends or a faith community. Allow others to pray for you, support you, and remind you of Godās goodness when you struggle to see it for yourself.
Worship in the Storm: Worship has a unique way of shifting our perspective. When Paul and Silas were in prison, they sang hymns to God (Acts 16:25). Their circumstances didnāt change immediately, but their hearts were free long before their chains were loosed. Worship breaks chains of fear and ushers in the presence of God.
A God Who Calms the Waves
One of the most powerful stories of peace in chaos is found in Mark 4:35-41. As Jesus and His disciples crossed the sea, a furious storm arose. While the disciples feared for their lives, Jesus slept peacefully in the boat. When they woke Him in panic, He simply said, āPeace! Be still!ā and the storm ceased.
This story is not just about a physical storm but a spiritual truth. Jesus’ peace is not circumstantial. He offers a peace that stands firm regardless of the waves around us. When we invite Him into our chaos, He brings order. When we call on His name, He speaks to the storm within us.
Final Encouragement
If you find yourself in the middle of a storm today, know that you are not alone. God sees you, hears you, and is with you. He is not distant or disconnected but intimately involved in every detail of your struggle. His peace is available to youānot because the situation makes sense but because He is present.
Take a deep breath. Whisper His name. Let His peace flood your heart and mind. As you rest in Him, you will find that while the storm may not pass immediately, your soul can find calm in the stormās eye.
Call to Action: If this message encouraged you, share it with a friend who might need a reminder of Godās peace today. For more biblical teachings and daily encouragement, visit our blog at Gentleman Outlaw and explore the āDaily Lightā series for fresh insights and inspiration every week.
š Day 1: When the Waves Rise “Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.” (Psalm 107:28-29)
Storms donāt ask for permission; they come suddenly, shaking everything around us. But no matter how high the waves rise, God hears our cries. He may not remove the storm immediately, but He promises to bring us through it. The waves obey His command.
Reflection: What waves are crashing around you right now? Have you cried out to God, trusting Him to calm your heart even if the storm still rages?
š Day 2: Peace in the Storm “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)
True peace isnāt the absence of trouble but the presence of trust. The worldās peace depends on circumstances, but Godās peace surpasses understanding. Even when storms rage, you can anchor yourself in the unshakable truth that He is with you.
Reflection: Are you focusing on the storm or the One who controls it? How can you fix your mind on Godās promises today?
š Day 3: Trusting When You Canāt See “For we live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)
Faith doesnāt always come with clarity. Sometimes, we must step forward without seeing the whole picture. Like Peter walking on water, trust means keeping our eyes on Jesus, even when the wind howls. When we focus on Him, fear loses its grip.
Reflection: What step of faith is God calling you to take, even if you donāt have all the answers?
š Day 4: Anchored in Godās Promises “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” (Hebrews 6:19)
An anchor keeps a ship steady in rough waters. Godās promises are the anchor of our souls, keeping us secure when lifeās storms try to pull us away. His Word is unshakable, and His faithfulness never fails.
Reflection: What promises of God do you need to cling to today? How can you remind yourself that He is your anchor?
š Day 5: Finding Strength in the Tempest “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Storms make us feel weak, but they also reveal where our strength comes from. Paul rejoiced in his hardships because they magnified Godās power in his life. Your struggles arenāt signs of failureāthey are invitations to rely on His grace.
Reflection: How can you shift your perspective and see your struggle as an opportunity for God to work through you?
š Day 6: Jesus Calms the Storm “The wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, āWhy are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?ā” (Mark 4:39-40)
Jesus never promised a storm-free life, but He did promise His presence. The disciples feared for their lives, yet Jesus was in the boat all along. No matter how fierce the storm, He is still in control.
Reflection: Do you believe Jesus is with you in your storm? How would your response change if you truly rested in His presence?
Overcoming Obstacles: Finding Strength in Every Challenge
Key Scriptures:
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”(Genesis 50:20)
Devotional:
Obstacles are an inevitable part of life. Whether they come in the form of difficult relationships, financial struggles, health issues, or spiritual dryness, they challenge us and stretch our faith. The Bible offers profound wisdom on how to face these challenges with grace and strength.
In James 1:2-3, we find a call to joy in the face of trials. This joy isnāt a forced happiness but a deep-seated confidence that God is at work, refining us. The testing of our faith, while uncomfortable, produces perseveranceāa strength that endures. Itās in the heat of trials that our character is forged and our trust in God is deepened.
The story of Joseph in Genesis is a living example of this truth. Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and unjustly imprisoned, Joseph had every reason to despair. Yet, he remained faithful. When he finally confronted his brothers, his response wasnāt bitterness but revelation: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good.” This perspective is key to overcoming obstacles. It allows us to see beyond the pain of the moment to the purpose of God.
Beyond Josephās story, the Bible offers a rich tapestry of examples:
David and Goliath: The young shepherd boy faced an obstacle that terrified an entire army. With faith, a sling, and a stone, David overcame a giant, proving that with God, even the impossible becomes possible (1 Samuel 17).
Ruthās Journey: After losing her husband, Ruth chose to follow Naomi to a foreign land. Despite the obstacle of loss and uncertainty, her faithfulness led her into Godās greater plan, becoming part of the lineage of Jesus (Ruth 1-4).
Estherās Courage: Esther faced a life-threatening obstacle when her people were under threat. Her bravery and reliance on God allowed her to become a voice of salvation for her nation (Esther 4:14).
Nehemiahās Determination: Rebuilding Jerusalemās walls was a monumental task, filled with opposition and discouragement. Nehemiah overcame by remaining focused on Godās mission and refusing to be distracted by his enemies (Nehemiah 6:3).
Obstacles are not just ancient stories; they are part of our everyday lives. Whether itās dealing with a difficult coworker, managing an illness, or navigating a season of uncertainty, challenges are opportunities to draw closer to God. When we shift our perspective from “Why is this happening?” to “What is God teaching me?” we open the door to growth and wisdom.
Practical Steps to Overcome Obstacles:
Pray for Perspective: Ask God to help you see your situation through His eyes.
Embrace the Process: Understand that growth often comes through discomfort.
Seek Godās Word: The Bible offers guidance, comfort, and truth that can illuminate your path.
Take One Step at a Time: Big obstacles are conquered through small, faithful steps.
Find Community: Surround yourself with people who encourage you and speak life into your circumstances.
Remember Past Victories: Reflect on how God has brought you through before and let it build your faith for today.
Reflection Questions:
How do you typically respond to obstaclesāby leaning into God or pulling away?
Can you think of a time when a hardship ultimately led to something good in your life?
How might God be inviting you to grow through your current challenges?
What practical steps can you take this week to face your obstacles with faith?
Prayer:
Lord, help me to see my obstacles through Your eyes. Give me the strength to persevere, the faith to trust Your plan, and the wisdom to learn from every trial. May I find joy, not in the difficulty itself, but in knowing You are with me and working for my good. Amen.
Call to Action:
If this devotional has encouraged you, take a moment to share your story. How has God helped you overcome an obstacle in your life? Share in the comments below or join us in the ‘Daily Light’ community for deeper discussion and support.
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š Day 1: Embracing Trials with Joy “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)
Obstacles often come without warning, unsettling our lives and testing our faith. Yet, James challenges us to approach trials with joyānot a fleeting happiness, but a deep, abiding joy rooted in trust. Each trial is a refining fire, burning away the dross and strengthening what remains. Perseverance is not born from ease but through enduring difficulty with hope.
Reflection: When was the last time you chose joy in the midst of a struggle? What might God be refining in you today?
š Day 2: The Long Road to Redemption “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”(Genesis 50:20)
Josephās journey from betrayal to blessing was marked by hardship and injustice. His ability to see Godās hand even in the darkest moments is a profound reminder that no obstacle is wasted. God transforms pain into purpose, turning what was meant for harm into a story of redemption and hope.
Reflection: Can you identify a past hurt that God has transformed into something good? How might He use your current struggle for His purpose?
š Day 3: The Courage to Face Giants “David said to the Philistine, ‘You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty.'” (1 Samuel 17:45)
Goliath was not just a physical giant but a representation of fear and intimidation. While others saw an impossible obstacle, David saw an opportunity for Godās power to shine. His courage came not from self-confidence but from God-confidence. When obstacles loom large, shift your focus from the size of the challenge to the greatness of your God.
Reflection: What āgiantā are you facing today? How can you take a step forward in faith, trusting God to guide you?
š Day 4: Faithfulness in the Unknown “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16)
Ruthās journey is a testament to faithfulness in the face of uncertainty. She left everything familiar to follow Naomi into a foreign land, not knowing what lay ahead. Her story shows us that obedience in the unknown often leads to blessings beyond our imagination. When obstacles make the future unclear, choose faith over fear and follow where God leads.
Reflection: Is God calling you to step into the unknown? What would faithfulness look like for you today?
š Day 5: Rising to the Moment “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)
Estherās obstacle was monumentalāher people faced annihilation, and her intervention required life-threatening bravery. She rose to the occasion, understanding that God had positioned her with purpose. Our obstacles might not be as dramatic, but each one offers a chance to align with Godās greater plan.
Reflection: What situation in your life might God be calling you to address with courage and purpose?
š Day 6: Staying Focused Amidst Opposition “I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you?”(Nehemiah 6:3)
Nehemiahās story is one of determination. While rebuilding Jerusalemās walls, he faced threats, distractions, and criticism. His secret to overcoming obstacles was focus. When opposition tries to derail you, remember the work God has set before you and refuse to be pulled away.
Reflection: What distractions or discouragements are keeping you from completing Godās work in your life? How can you refocus today?
RVL – Ray Vander Laan talks about discipleship as Jesus and his disciples would have understood it. Take this time to learn what it really means to be a disciple or to go and make disciples.
