In most cases, things that surprise
us are positive and fun such as an unexpected gift, an unplanned event which
materializes on the spur of a moment, a meeting of a close friend or family
member whom we have not seen for some time, or an unanticipated word of thanks
or encouragement that someone shares with us. These surprises bring a
smile to our face, excitement to our life and joy to our heart. However,
there are other surprises that are not fun, turn out to be negative, and bring
stress to our lives. Two of those surprises came to my wife and me within
one week – both our water heater and refrigerator quit working. These
unexpected negative surprises brought concern, distress, and even discouragement.
However, according to the Scripture, anyone who names the name of Christ should
approach any surprise – positive or negative – in the same manner. The
Bible says, “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in
a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1:27).
This verse implies three things:
1)
Both positive and negative experiences will happen to us (as suggested
by the words “whatever happens”)
2)
We have responsibility for how we act (as suggested by the words “conduct yourselves”).
3)
The way we live our life must measure up to a godly standard (as
suggested by the words “worthy of the gospel of
Christ”).
Have you been taken by surprise
lately? Was that surprise positive, negative, or did you have more than
one surprise? If you are a child of God approach that surprise from a
godly perspective.
