1 Corinthians 4:12-13 We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly…

1 Corinthians 4:12-13 We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly…

                Being pleasant is not difficult when things go your way, but have you learned to shine during rainy weather?  Have you died to your flesh enough to bless when you are cursed, to answer kindly when you are slandered or to endure quietly when you are persecuted?

                You only have control over yourself.  If you wait for others to treat you right or for things to go better before you have a good attitude, you are giving up your control to someone else.  This is a victim’s approach to life.  A victim feels powerless; they hopelessly wait for someone to change before they can find happiness.  But, being happy is a choice.  You must take control of your feelings and your behavior if you are going to find peace and contentment. 

                In Genesis 37, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery.  Joseph’s trials were just beginning.  He suffered through betrayal, false accusation, and neglect, but Joseph did not sit back and feel sorry for himself.  He made the best of each situation he faced.  He became the “sunshine” in the dreary prisons.  He knew how to choose happiness rather than remain a victim.  Joseph knew his God, and he trusted God to always lead his steps for good.  This ability to overcome brought him recognition, promotion, and success in the middle of the bad situations.  And, in God’s time, he was promoted out of the pit into the palace. 

                Learn to act rather than react to life.  Make choices—purposeful choices that will bless and not curse others.  Do not give your power away by allowing others to steal your peace and joy with their bad attitudes.  Remember that the other guy is the one with the problem, not you; therefore, choose to keep your good attitude in spite of his words or actions.  With God’s help and your commitment to do things His way, you can find sunshine in your life today.

Dear God, None of us like to be falsely accused, slandered or mistreated.  I know you want me to be kind, gentle and good even when others do me wrong.  I invite your Holy Spirit to do that work in me.  Teach me how to choose sunshine instead of rain.