What’s Your Attitude in Adversity

GROUP DEVOTION - MAY 29, 2010

Today´s Passage: Hab. 3:16-19

哈 巴 谷 書 3:17-18 雖 然 無 花 果 樹 不 發 旺 ， 葡 萄 樹 不 結 果 ， 橄 欖 樹 也 不 效 力 ， 田 地 不 出 糧 食 ， 圈 中 絕 了 羊 ， 棚 內 也 沒 有 牛 ； 然 而 ， 我 要 因 耶 和 華 歡 欣 ， 因 救 我 的 　 神 喜 樂 。

"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior" (Habakkuk 3:17-18, NIV)

Today´s Word:
We all face challenges, difficulties, and times when things don´t go our way. God doesn´t send these storms, but He will allow us to go through certain things in order to shape our character and prove our faith. Really, it´s in our times of difficulty that we grow and develop.

God wants to use the tough times in our lives to do a work in us. He wants to strengthen and develop us. Our attitude in times of adversity is the evidence of our maturity. Are we going to treat people right even when we´re being mistreated? Are we going to stay full of joy even when the bottom falls out? Are we going to be faithful even in the dry seasons of our lives when we don´t see anything good happening?

It may take more effort. You may have to work harder to keep a good attitude, but remember: attitude is the key to your promotion. As you keep that positive attitude of faith and expectancy, even in times of adversity, God will deliver you and move you forward into the destiny He has prepared for you!



Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I want to grow spiritually and be more like You. I choose to trust You in times of adversity knowing that You are working things out for my good. Renew a right attitude within me by Your Spirit. In Jesus´ Name, Amen.

Meditation:
What storm is looming in your horizon? How would you prepare to ride out the storm? What kind of right attitude do you need inside?

(Adapted from Joel Osteen Ministry Devotion Series; Cantonese version available in video.)