When I expected good grapes, why did I get bitter grapes? Isaiah 5:4b (MSG)
I don't presume to know why things turn out the way they do. My eyes have seen showers of blessing fall on the righteous and the unrighteous. I have witnessed both drink from the cup of bitterness. I have known blessing, and I have experienced bitterness. My eyes can't see all ends. My mind can't fathom all of God's designs or perceive the intricate interplay of good and evil in each event. I regularly find myself at a loss to explain. No matter how long I ponder, such things are beyond my reach.
What I do know is that daily I stand at a crossroads and choose my path, no matter what my momentary circumstances. One path is the way of bitterness, self-centeredness, and blame. The other is the way of gratitude, humility and perseverance. I know both roads well. I've spent considerable time on both. Depending on which day you cross my path you may have happened to see me on either.
More often now I choose the latter. The steps are more difficult and the path normally ascends at an uncomfortable rate (The former choice provides such an easy descent!). Yet, the place I end up is always more wholesome for me and everyone around me.
21-23Doom to you who think you’re so smart,
who hold such a high opinion of yourselves!
A few days ago I shared that arrogant people drive me nuts. Even so, I know that I too am at risk for acting like this. God, keep me humble and obedient.