Meditating on Circumstances

Balaam's donkey turned aside, and for all he could see, she was working against him. But he didn't see the angel. He didn't know she was blessing him. And he struck her.

How often, o Lord, do I strike out against the circumstances You shape to bless me? Your word says "You will keep in perfect peace the mind that is dependent on You, for it is trusting in You." Help me, God to trust You in all circumstances. Help me to be a man of peace.

When money is scarce,

When things break,

When my children fight,

When my wife and I disagree,

When the church seems to turn aside,

When I lose things,

When I have too much to do,

When I don't get my way,

When I don't have much time,

When I don't like the plan,

When people are stupid,

When I am stupid,

When children are ignored,

When ministry is missed,

When I stumble and fall...

In all these and other circumstances, when action is required and when stillness is, may I act or be still in peace. For all things are in Your hand, and I am Yours.