Every good story has that element that seems to reel you in, excited to see what happens next. When you read a good book, its a page turner. When you watch that movie that has twists and turns in the plot, it keeps you guessing. Sometimes it’s that favorite show that has you in suspense for the next episode. We all love stories and they’re happening all around us every day.
Life is like a story. There are seasons to your story. Sometimes it’s the good part where the guy gets the girl or the underdog wins out over the bully. The ending, in those stories, always seems to be happy. The resolution is what we love; the hero rides into the sunset on his trusty horse. But life isn’t a movie. And our stories are winding and complex. For many, it seems like a bad script.
The season you’re in right now is part of your story. It may not be glamorous or romantic but it’s good because it’s yours. You get to write your part. True, there are characters in this narrative that don’t seem to follow the screenplay, but you can control your part. You drive the narrative of your story. No one else.
When the antagonist antagonizes, your character doesn’t have to get revenge. You can write a different direction.
When the doctor’s diagnose an illness, rather than give up, you can fight with dignity.
When they tear you down, you can respond with kindness.
When love eludes you, trust in a love that cannot end.
When the kids were little, we would hear, “Daddy, he made me _______” And I’d respond, “No one makes you do anything. You have a choice.”
Your story is good. And every good story has a new and exciting chapter ahead. I look forward to seeing and hearing how you choose to write the next season on your life. When you allow God to be the center of everything, it will be fulfilling. I’m praying for you.
Matt
“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.” – Jeremiah 17:7 (NLT)
Matt Hastings lives with his wife Keri and their five children in Tullahoma, Tennessee. He is the pastor of the Estill Springs Church of the Nazarene. [Editor’s Note: Matt has graciously allowed us to republish his weekly email devotionals on our site for our readers.]