An unexpected obstacle – now what?
I’ll save the details for later. But I was watching President Carter’s funeral, listening to what people said about him, and I realized how much he is remembered, at least by some, for the political obstacles he encountered. And sadly, for those he failed to overcome.
Again, the details don’t matter Here. But I’m sure those obstacles were frustrating. I’m sure he got angry. I’m sure he wondered why a man trying to do good things encountered so much resistance.
How did he get past the anger and frustration? To me, the words spoken in his memory held the key.
He thought long-term.
I’m sure that wasn’t always easy in the political world that demands and rewards short-term thinking. But listening to people that spoke about him, it was clear that he had the end in mind. Not the immediate end, but the eternal end he saw through the lens of his faith.
That’s how you stay in love for 77 years. How you fashion the most consequential post-presidency. How you pound nails one day and meet with world leaders the next.
I know this obstacle is short-term. I know Jesus has His hand on my shoulder, reminding me He knows the plan.
Am I the only one who knows and believes and still behaves as though nothing ever goes my way?
One day, probably soon, this obstacle won’t be a big deal. I’m pretty sure it won’t be a major chapter in the story.
I believe. Help my unbelief!