PRAISE THURSDAY THEME: What does the Bible have to tell us when things don’t go our way?  We all know that disappointments, large or small, can lead to discouragement, which can then lead to downright anger.  So where we can we go when we feel that slide towards disappointment?

I think several passages rise up when we consider this question.  I am praising God today because His word guides me through these times.  James 1 reminds us that we can ‘consider it pure joy’ when we face trials. In 2015, that may seem oxymoronic or downright crazy!  But James wasn’t trying to be insensitive; instead, he’s urging us to rejoice because of what God will accomplish through our trials.  Earthly trials produce spiritual endurance and eventual spiritual maturity, or I would call perspective.

James also gets us started in the right direction – he says that if we lack wisdom, we should ASK GOD. We’ve got to remember to ask God first, then believe and not doubt when the direction is given.  After all, He’s got the bigger picture in mind.

Here are some other encouraging verses concerning disappointment:

Jeremiah 29:11
Romans 8:28
Philippians 4:6-7
Colossians 3:23-25

WORD OF THE DAY: ergonomic (adjective): intended to provide optimum comfort and to avoid stress or injury.

FIREWORKS UPDATE:  Don’t forget – there are TWO celebrations this year in Mount Vernon: Friday night 7/3 at dusk (10pm) over Memorial Park (WNZR Fireworks Viewing Party link here) and Saturday 7/4 at Ariel-Foundation Park with a laser light show at 9:30 and a fireworks finale at 10:00.

Thanks for listening and Happy 4th of July!

-Joe