Good Morning,
Have you ever asked yourself, “What if I could start over? What would I do differently?” It’s a complex question with no easy answers. Often, we find ourselves dwelling on our past mistakes or daydreaming about alternate paths that could have led to different outcomes. However, we know that we cannot change the past. Every decision we make affects our lives and those around us.
One of the most valuable lessons we can learn is that our mistakes do not define us. Instead, they offer an opportunity to learn and make better choices in the future. By reflecting on our past experiences, we gain a better understanding of ourselves and what we want out of life. But what if our current situation isn’t our fault? What if it’s all part of God’s plan for our life?
As Romans 8:28 reminds us, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” It can be hard to make sense of our circumstances, but we must trust Jesus to help us move forward. It’s important to let go of labels and societal expectations that hold us back. God desires to transform us and elevate us from nothing to something, from rejection to acceptance, as stated in 1 Peter 2:10b (MSG). Remember, we are chosen by Him, and He is the one who will bring about the change we need (1 Peter 2:9-10 MSG).
Sincerely,
Your Friend <3
A moment to reflect
Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he.
John 9:9
Have you ever felt wrongly judged and labeled by others who think they know everything about you? It can be aggravating when people assume they understand or have it all figured out, but in reality, they don’t. In John 9, we see the story of a man who was born blind and was known as a common beggar around town. People assumed they knew why he was in this position, but they didn’t1.
When Jesus first encountered the man, it was when he was fleeing from the Pharisees. The disciples asked Jesus if the man’s blindness was the result of his sin or his parent’s sin. During those times, it was commonly believed that suffering resulted from sin in a person’s life.2 However, in this case, it was simply because he was born that way. This story highlights the power of God and His desire to help in our most desperate times.
Have you ever felt like the blind man described in this passage? Perhaps you’ve experienced a period of uncertainty regarding your place in life, leaving you feeling overwhelmed with shame and regret, believing that you alone are responsible for your current situation. This passage, however, teaches us that God is ultimately in control and that our circumstances are not solely based on our actions or the actions of our ancestors. It’s essential to humble ourselves before God and recognize that genuine transformation can only occur through Christ. God desires for us to be free and to share the incredible things He has done in our lives.
Here’s to the true testament of what God can do! The blind man was once known as a beggar, but after one touch from Jesus, he went from being blind to seeing. This caused the people around him to be confused, as he was no longer dependent on others. God blessed him so he could do for himself, which is what God wants for all of us. We must understand that God sees our individual needs and blesses and heals us based on what He knows we need.
We serve a God who is not stuck in stereotypes but rather sees us as individuals.3 If we allow Him to work in us, our lives alone will be a testament to the mighty works of God. We, too, can be a night and day difference in this world. Let us give God praise today not only for the things He has done for us but also for the things He will do.
Daily Challenge
Seeking Truth in Labels through Faith
Our lives are often defined by various labels, but it’s crucial to bring these labels to God and examine His word for truth. He will help you distinguish between genuine purpose and mere hearsay. Remember, you were created in God’s image, and despite what others may say, you were made for a reason – even if it comes with a disposition you didn’t choose.
- Blue Letter Bible, “Matthew Henry: Commentary on John 9” accessed November 14, 2023, https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Jhn/Jhn_009.cfm?a=1006009 ↩︎
- Blue Letter Bible, “David Guzik: Study Guide for John 9” accessed November 14, 2023, https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/guzik_david/study-guide/john/john-9.cfm?a=1006009 ↩︎
- Blue Letter Bible, “David Guzik: Study Guide for John 9” accessed November 14, 2023, https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/guzik_david/study-guide/john/john-9.cfm?a=1006009 ↩︎
One reply on “Unrecognizable”
[…] Have you ever felt wrongly judged and labeled by others who think they know everything about you? It can be aggravating when people assume they understand or have it all figured out, but in reality, they don’t. In John 9, we see the story of a man who was born blind and was known as a common beggar around town. People assumed they knew why he was in this position, but they didn’t1. […]