“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV
My seven-year-old and 11-year-old daughters started school earlier this week (#distancelearningedition), and yet they were both extremely excited. My seven-year-old spent the morning planning outfits for the week and sorting her school supplies in anticipation of her 8:30 Zoom class meeting. So imagine my surprise when she ran into my room at 8:35, crocodile tears streaming down her face.
“My internet is not working and now the video is freezing.
All the other kids don’t know how to go on mute when the teacher is talking.
And now I have a headache.”
As a parent I heard:
“Things are not happening the way I expected.
I’m trying, but this is not working for me.
I am disappointed.”
Like my seven-year-old, all of us are facing uncertainty, frustration, and surely disappointment as recent (and maybe not-so-recent) aspects of our lives are not panning out as we planned. In our two minute conversation, I reminded my daughter (and myself) of two ways to deal with disappointment.
LOOK TO GOD
While feelings of disappointment may feel permanent, they are not, but our God is omnipresent and so are His plans for us – remember he’s Alpha and Omega (Revelation 21:6). Honestly, directing more focus on Jesus means less time to focus on the causes of disappointment or uncertainty. Redirecting my gaze toward God, through prayer, worship, and meditating on His word, fosters peace and hope. Not that the disappointment immediately disappears, but it fades into the background of my life, once my attention is redirected to Jesus.
LOOK FOR OTHERS
The reality is we all have colleagues, friends, and family members who are also experiencing disappointment and uncertainty, though they may or may not know God. This means that after redirecting my gaze towards God - I need to look for others who may also need help. Colossians 4:5-6 says “be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.” For many of us, shifting focus from our own challenges to the needs of others, might be the most compelling opportunity we have to show the love of Christ.
Reflection
Where are you focusing your attention while in the midst of disappointment? What can you do to redirect your gaze back towards God? How might shifting your attention towards the needs of others help you deal with your own disappointment?
Prayer
Jesus, I thank you that you are ever present and that you are my source of strength in times of need. I pray that I will look to You for help in seasons of disappointment, and in turn, look for others who may need my help. Lord, use me to show Your love in all that I say and do regardless of the circumstance. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Comments