Expect God’s Goodness

   “Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters.  Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”  James 1:16-17 NIV

   As I write this, those of us in Eastern Pennsylvania are enjoying some spring-like weather with Christmas only a week away.  The fact is, I earnestly prayed for this weather, so as far as I am concerned, it is a gift from God, and I am thanking Him for it.

   Yet, almost every time we are blessed with nice weather in the midst of winter here, someone seems to say, “This is great weather, but we are really going to pay for it!”  So, I have gotten in the habit in recent years of praying that when we are blessed with extraordinary weather, the Lord will neutralize any harm that it would bring us, and make it work for our good.  And you know what?  God has always done exactly that.  Why?  Simply because I asked – and expected – Him to.

   Scripture says:  “Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters.  Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:16-17 NIV)  Contrary to popular opinion, God doesn’t give us a blessing, and then make us suffer for it.  But we can call hardship, disaster, and calamity to us when we speak words of doubt and disbelief – instead of words of gratitude and thanksgiving.  We have to remember that the enemy of our souls is constantly looking for any opportunity to use our own words and ingratitude against us.

   The Bible says: “Watch this: God’s eye is on those who respect Him, the ones who are looking for His love.  He’s ready to come to their rescue in bad times; in lean times He keeps body and soul together.” (Psalm 33:18-19 MSG)  Don’t be deceived, dear one.  Believe that because you belong to Him, the Lord longs to bless you every day of your life with all kinds of spiritual and earthly blessings.  Whatever you are going through right now, begin saying – “Lord, I am expecting You to show me Your goodness in this situation!” – because our God cannot resist an expectant heart!

    Lord, work in my heart so that I will never entertain the notion that when You give us an unexpected blessing, You will eventually make us suffer for it.  Help me to believe with every fiber of my being that You are a good God, and that You have only good gifts for those who are devoted to You.  Teach me how to guard my mouth and my words so that I don’t unwittingly call disaster and hardship to myself through doubt and unbelief.  Thank You that as I always believe the best of You – and continually give You thanks and praise – You will pour on the blessings in every area of my life! 

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