Today's Daily Bread
Situation Excellent
Our Daily Bread
At the First Battle of the Marne during World War I, French
lieutenant general Ferdinand Foch sent out this communiqué: “My center
is giving way, my right is retreating. Situation excellent. I am
attacking.” His willingness to see hope in a tough situation eventually
led to victory for his troops.
Sometimes in life’s battles we can feel as if we are losing on every
front. Family discord, business setbacks, financial woes, or a decline
in health can put a pessimistic spin on the way we look at life. But the
believer in Christ can always find a way to conclude: “Situation
excellent.”
Look at Paul. When he was thrown in prison for preaching the gospel,
he had an unusually upbeat attitude. To the church at Philippi he wrote,
“I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me
have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel” (Phil.
1:12).
Paul saw his prison situation as a new platform from which to
evangelize the Roman palace guard. In addition, other Christians became
emboldened by his situation to preach the gospel more fearlessly
(vv.13-14).
God can use our trials to work good in spite of the pain they bring (Rom. 8:28). That’s just one more way He can be honored.
Comfort us, Lord, when life’s trials assail—
we fail and stumble so often. Renew us, and
help us to grow so that others may also
know Your goodness and comfort.
we fail and stumble so often. Renew us, and
help us to grow so that others may also
know Your goodness and comfort.
Trials can be God’s road to triumph.
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