Read: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11

We should not trust in
ourselves but in God.
-2 Corinthians 1:9

We usually think of “opportunity” as our own chance to
take a significant step ahead in life. We love the idea
of an open door or a favorable moment to seize the
chance of a lifetime. But do we ever think of
opportunity from God’s perspective?

Pastor Browning Ware has written: “Our worst
circumstances may be God’s best opportunity to bring new
meaning to our lives.” J.B. Phillips said something
similar: “Man’s extremity is God’s opportunity.”

This principle was true in the apostle Paul’s life,
and I suspect it’s true in our experience as well. In
his second letter to the believers in Corinth, Paul
recalled a time when he and his companions were under
great pressure, far beyond their ability to endure.
They even thought they were going to die (2 Cor. 1:8).
But Paul said that during those troubled times they
learned to put their trust not in themselves “but in God
who raises the dead” (v.9).

As you look at your life, do you recognize the
opportunities for God to teach you? It may be during
times of hurt or great loss; or maybe you’ve come to the
end of yourself and given up hope.

Your worst circumstance may be God’s best opportunity.
Trust Him. He will bring new meaning to your life.
-David C. McCasland

When troubles come into your life
That seem too much to bear,
Give God the opportunity
To show His love and care. -Sper

GOD USES OUR SETBACKS TO MOVE US AHEAD.

OUR DAILY BREAD, Copyright 1999 by Radio Bible Class,
Grand Rapids,Michigan. Used by permission.