We All Struggle – Devotion 297

We all struggle in some way.  We all find ourselves afraid at times.  We all have issues we cannot seem to resolve.  Many of us fight anxiety or loneliness.  Some are riding the overwhelming waves of grief.  Others are lashing out in anger for no apparent reason.  We can hide all of these feelings deep inside, but they eventually show themselves in unexpected ways.  

What if we approached our day with the understanding that everyone struggles.  From the outwardly most confident to the completely humble, everyone has something they are dealing with.  We don’t always talk about it – not everyone has earned the right to hear our story.  We don’t always let people in on our issues – people can take advantage if placed in the hands of the wrong ones.  So many put on a brave face and move forward.  

If we start with the understanding that we are all struggling in some way, could it make us more understanding?  Could it be we find ourselves more patient?  I wonder if we could become more kind and loving – even to those who seem so angry and mean and harsh.  Could it be the people who most drive us crazy could actually steer us to prayer?  I think we could approach the world a lot differently if we simply realize no one is immune to difficulties.  No one gets an easy ride in this life.  Some struggle more than others – but no one gets to avoid difficulties altogether.  

May we find ourselves more kind today.  May we shine with the light of Christ, showing hope as we move through our world. 

Focus Scripture:

Galatians 5:22-23

²² By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.

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