July 21

Read 1 Peter 4

^12-13Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner. (The Message)

Yesterday as we were leaving Denver, CO we began to see signs that said the Interstate was closed ahead and a phone number to call for more information. After calling the 511 number we found out that there had been a major accident just before the Eisenhower Tunnel and cars were being turned around. The kicker at then end of the message was that there were no alternate routes.

Well my wife and children know that I've never known there to be no alternate rout and sure enough we found one. One that was filled with switchbacks, slow traffic, and extra miles. Sure we could have sat there by the Interstate and waited for the accident to be cleared (which it actually was about 1 1/2 hours after we would have gotten to the turn around point). But if we had waited we would never have experienced the amazement of cresting highway 131 and seeing the Rockie Mountains laid out before us with the setting sun bursting upon them and the moment of worship that reminded us both that God was and is a creating God.

I in no way am comparing the pain of life to the inconvenience of a detour. But I do believe that it is important to keep our eyes open where ever we are to experience the presence of God. The moment we stop looking for God and begin focusing upon the pain we begin to lose out on what God might have in store for us in spite of the circumstances around us. It doesn't mean that the pain will go away, but rather that in the midst of the pain God is and will be there to support us, encourage us, and to remind us that we are not alone.

Some thoughts to ponder and share with others:

• What has been the biggest detour that you have ever taken in life? Were you "forced" to take the detour or did you "choose" to take it? 
• When you are traveling do you prefer to take the safe and known roads or would you rather explore? Why do you think this is your tendency?
• Who do you know today that is in the midst of great difficulties? Is there something that God might want you to do today to encourage and help them in the midst of this time?
• How might you give the difficulty you face today to God for a chance to be surprised by God's grace?

Prayer Focus:

• Pray for the children of families that are choosing to become a part of New Ground that they might find a loving extended family that will do everything to help them and nothing to hurt them.
• Pray for doors to open for New Ground that could only happen because God wants them to open