Deceiving -vs- Believing

Jonah 2:8- "Those deceived by worthless things lose their chance for mercy.”
    It is remarkable how deceiving some things can be if we only take a look at the surface or what is first being presented. I remember just last week how beautiful the sun was shining through my windows early in the morning, but how the temperature was deceptively cold outside. From all appearances while inside, it seemed as if it was going to be a warm, sunny day; but once you stepped outside you could instantly tell that it was sunny but not close to being warm. Similar occurrences can happen in our lives. Some things that seem like blessings can turn out to be misfortunes and other things that seem like tragedies may very well end up being blessings in disguise. We must not be deceived by first appearances; God always has something going on in the mix.     We must not also get hung up on getting too comfortable in what appears to be our greatest triumph. You could be in the middle of what might be an awesome experience but God just might have something even greater in store. We have to be flexible and able to move with the flow of God’s rhythm. We might be presented with options to take opportunities that on the outset do not appear to be very grandiose; but if God is directing you to take that job or foster that relationship; it is in your best interest to remember that big things often come in small packages. Don’t be deceived. Think about how many times on the TV show “Let’s Make A Deal” that the contestants gave up wonderful prizes going after the biggest box or shiniest curtain only to get ‘zonked’.     Every ugly situation can turn out to be great when God is in control. Every sour note can turn into a beautiful melody when we place our trust in God. Remember, every growl does not have a bite. Believe God has your best interest at heart and you will truly be able to say that “every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day”! Be blessed! Be on the lookout for wonderful blessings that might come in small packages. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn