MONDAY, JANUARY 22
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair;”
2 Corinthians 4:7-8 ESV
WHEN BAD THINGS HAPPEN: STAY HAPPY
On January 9th, 2007, Joshua Bell sold out Boston’s Symphony Hall. Seats were nearly $100 each. Bell plays a violin worth more than $3 million and is one of the best musicians in the world. Three days later he entered a metro station in Washington, D.C. wearing casual clothing and a ball cap. He opened his case and played his violin for 45 minutes. Only six people stopped, 20 gave money (a total of $32), but no one recognized him.
In 2 Corinthians the Apostle Paul was writing to a group of believers who were struggling and not recognizing the valuable treasure that was right in front of them. So many false prophets of that day were teaching that great faith was rewarded with great material gain and ease of life. Yet, Paul wrote to remind them that the greatest “treasure” or value in life was “the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.” Basically, because we know Jesus we know God and we can be encouraged even in difficult days.
God hasn’t promised that bad things won’t happen in life. But God has promised to be with us when we go through those bad things. God is in your subway with you and He is orchestrating a beautiful song with your life. Slow down and look and listen for Him today. When you hear and recognize His song it will bring joy to your heart.
