Tone Setter

One of my favorite sayings I picked up a long time ago is "time tells a great story."

The implication of that is that often when we hear it depends on whats going on in our life.

When are in the "storm" part of our story it seems that the narrative of our life is all about pain, suffering, frustration, or unmet expectations.

Statements like that are a reminder that although things might be tough right now, it will work out. And when people tell you that you want to nicely give them a smack.

Been there? Have those days when you wondered what this is really all about? Had those moments when you wondered why "they" always get the breaks and you don't?

Me too. This darn world can be tough for sure. But you and I are not alone. In fact, this is not new.

Imagine this for a moment, Paul given a new name and new purpose after his surrender to Jesus is on mission. And he's doing it, launching churches, multiplying disciples and taking the news of Jesus all over. Along the way... boats wreck, people disappoint, and you end up in prison multiple times.

I mean think about it for a moment... Paul is on purpose literally launching a movement that God used in amazing ways. But he got sidetracked A LOT. He's turned his life around and is trying to steward something that matters and is way bigger than him, yet time and time again things don't go his way.

Take a look at the letters Paul pens we find in the Bible. You'll see a pattern. In the opening sentences Paul gives himself a name. That name is an anchor for how Paul navigates the challenges that come his way. It's a name that might be offensive in our modern day context.

That name? Slave.

Paul calls himself a slave of Jesus. His complete dedication and obedience surrendered to his King. And in the moments things get tough, Paul reminds himself that these things are temporary and that his King and Kingdom are eternal. He literally titles himself as a slave to Jesus to start his letters. He is setting the tone not just for the reader, but for himself.

This is life changing. On a personal level, if you know my story over the last many years He's put me square in the storm personally and professionally.

Wish I could say I always handled it well, but I've tried. He's been gracious enough to remind me of this: time tells a great story, even greater when it's surrendered to Him.

Things have not always gone the way I've wanted. But He is still on the throne and I have surrendered to Him. My part of the story is how I choose to react and pivot to reveal whether I believe it. I know this, temporary frustration is worth it for eternal peace.

I'd rather struggle now knowing I'm trying my best to follow and submit to Him and trust that my hope is not in today or this broken world, my hope is in Heaven.

No matter where you are in your story, I've learned it's wise to look in the mirror and remind yourself who God says you are. Remind yourself of His goodness. And don't forget to submit, it's in the open hands He often works.

Why do I write this? I know I've written things like this before. For the same reason Paul titles himself a slave. To remind himself and others that in the end, He wins. May it be a helpful reminder to you and to me that our King reigns forever.