Life is full of surprises.” -John Major
I’ll just say it — I like Starbucks and I’m not even going to lie about it. Why Starbucks? Because even though I have to order a tall-sized drink (since I can never finish it) and modify whatever beverage I order to be low sugar, low fat, and pretty much low everything, I still enjoy going there to work on my writing while drinking my overpriced cup of coffee. Sometimes, if I am feeling adventurous, I try one of their seasonal beverages. Today, I did just that. I tried the Dragon Drink and was pleasantly surprised!
While enjoying my amazing Dragon Drink, I got to thinking about how much I disliked surprises when I was younger. I think it all started every time I showed up for class (in Elementary and Middle School) and my teacher would surprise the class with a quiz out of nowhere. Why?!? It never failed that these “surprise” quizzes would often come when I was least prepared and, of course, I would fail them miserably.
If I have learned anything about life, it would be that it is full of surprises. They are not always pleasant ones, and even if I prepare well to live stress and worry free, often out of nowhere I am hit with an unexpected situation that causes me grief or irritation. For the most part, I consider myself to be a positive individual. But by now, receiving unwanted surprises has kind of become by thing. So, I can honestly say that I have learned how to motivate myself–although it is an uphill battle!
When I am stunned by whatever life throws at me, I don’t always handle it well. However, I do try to. I just have give myself a “pep-talk” and choose to look at the bright side of everything. Sounds funny, but it does work. Life is hard! I would never argue with anyone about that because it is a reality that even Christ mentioned to His followers in the book of John. Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” -John 16:33 (NIV) I think is interesting that he gives us the painful truth with a beautiful hope attached to it.
I want to encourage you to keep these scriptures deep in your heart so that when you are surprised by life’s unwanted happenings, you will be able to encourage yourself and perhaps find that what you are dreading today might actually be (or become) a blessing in disguise:
2 Corinthians 4:17 (NIV)
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
Psalm 34:19 (NIV)
The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all;
Matthew 5:3-12 (NIV)
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.