Prison or Possibility?

Have you ever felt imprisoned by your life or circumstances?  Maybe it’s your health that has bound you or your body has given out. Maybe you’re in a season where you have responsibilities that are requiring a lot of your time or you would just like to retire, but can’t. There are so many examples of moments or seasons where you may feel bound. Maybe every metal bar on your cell has a problem attached to it and for years you have been dragging your tin cup against each bar yelling, “let me out”!

You’ve pondered, did I do something to deserve this?  What could I have done different or better?  Why is this happening to me?  When will this be over?

What if instead, we asked what God would like to do in and through us in this season?  It’s true that at any moment God could open that door, as he has proven before, but what will you do in the meantime?  What if the situation doesn’t change, what will you do for the long-haul?

Situations in life can seem punitive when looked at through the wrong lens.  Could it be that it’s actually an invitation?  Maybe it’s an opportunity?

We can see so many examples of Jesus’ followers incarcerated: unjustly locked away. To name a few, Paul, who wrote some of the New Testament behind bars.  Those very words we read today .  He saw God move in mighty ways. He preached while in chains leading many to Christ. John who was banished to the island of Patmos as punishment,  wrote the book of revelation there. Followers who found themselves in unavoidable situations, who saw it as an opportunity to further the gospel and bring glory to God. Their examples have taught, motivated and encouraged generations to follow and still equip the saints today.

Could it be that instead of a shutdown of your life it’s a set up for God to do something miraculous through you?  Potentially your circumstances could be the very vehicle that changes the world around you, when worship and praise takes the place of yelling and the banging of a tin cup.

When we choose to drink from a cup of surrender God can ignite new pathways to accomplish his plans through us regardless of where we are at the moment.

What could God do through you, right where you are today?  Is it possible it can only be accomplished in the midst of where you are right now?