negative

Because there are no exemptions, you will need to learn to use the exceptions. Look at this: [“We are] hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; [we are] perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed–2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NKJV). If you can find these two very special words the apostle Paul used to keep his head up and eyes focused on his mission, you’ll do ok in life. The words are, “yet” and “but.” You may be exempt from some things in life and may have an exempt licenses plate, but you are not exempt from the harsh realities of life. You are going to get hit with what everyone else gets hit with. It doesn’t matter what your social or economic status is or how spiritual you are, or how many Bible verses you’ve memorized, you will be tempted to lose heart and give up. “Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.” 2 Corinthians 4:1.

Paul had a unique ability to find a positive in every negative. This is our challenge today, to find a positive in the negative circumstances of life. You also have that ability if you will at least try. You may be facing a negative circumstance right now, so what is one possible positive? You may have lost your job, but you still have the ability to work. You may be abandoned, but God is still with you. You may be crippled physically, but you can still reach the Father. You may be abused, but healing is available from the Lord. The whole point is to do whatever you need to do so you don’t lose heart. Everyone may be against you, but God is still for you. You may have hit rock bottom, but you can still look up. There is an exception for whatever you are dealing with today. This is not making light of the horrendous situations people find themselves in, but hopefully you can find some kind of encouragement in this truth. Find your “yet” and your “but” and you’ll be able to keep moving with your purpose in life. You’ve been given something amazing, don’t let negative circumstances kill your God-given mission with the gospel.