2020 Daily Devotion - Day 280

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In his book, “Managing People is Like Herding Cats”, leadership guru Warren Bennis observes that "Almost invariably, great leaders have had a significant setback, crisis or failure in their lives. Many of the leaders I studied faced adversity early in their lives. Four of them had chronic illnesses. Three others were raised as orphans."

This is sometimes difficult to understand, but I think there is great truth in what Dr. Bennis is saying. The reason is because life’s challenges have a way of making us stronger and even wiser. If not for the setback or the mistakes we have made, we would be limited in our outlook and understanding. There is a certain level of wisdom which develops in us when life is hard and difficult. So while this might be a very difficult time for you, try to consider that your circumstances can also be something which makes you tougher and more resilient. Without discounting the pain you might be experiencing, look at the other side of the coin and consider you are becoming a more robust person. We can do this because our Heavenly Father is not going to abandon us.

Romans 5:3 ESV
More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance.

Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, while You did not create such things as COVID-19, You will give us the strength we need to face the challenges of life. We are not in this alone. You have promised to stand by us and lead us through. Give us Your grace so we might have the courage and strength we need. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Yours because of Him,
Pastor John R. Steward
Senior Pastor
Mount of Olives Church
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