In All Things

I have found in those times of greatest testing that my greatest struggle is with self-absorption. (See "self-worship" in the dictionary.) My thinking becomes centered on me and my needs and wants. I believe that I am the center of the universe and that what matters most is what I'm going through. What could be more arrogant and foolish than that?
At such times I must remind myself of what is actually of the greatest importance. His glory. I must be sure to continue to live a life that reflects my confidence in His love and His wisdom. I must say what I know to be true about who He is no matter what my sight may seem to be claiming. Temporary circumstances no matter how trying or heart breaking do not undermine the eternal promises of God or detract from His immutable character: faithful, merciful, gracious, loyal, true, wise. He is always those things--always. And so I must live and testify to His majesty and to my humble trust in who He is and in what He is doing in my life--no matter how deep the struggle and pain. They are always "growing pains." When all is "said and done," I will know Him more fully, trust Him more completely, be in awe of His wisdom, loyal love, and care for His child.
And I must pray that God will give me the power to put those impacted by the struggle and their needs above my own. There relationship with me is not important. Their relationship with Him is the only one that matters. And so my prayers for them and my actions toward them must be designed to focus their eyes and hearts on the Savior--the Lover of their souls. I cannot do that unless my eyes and heart are focused on Him and His glory in all things. The weight of His presence, the significance of His character as the God full of grace and truth must resonate in all I say and do. My life must speak for me: "I am the least important person in this struggle. His glory is the one and only thing that matters." In all things Christ.