While disappointment is part of life, shake it off
“When people do not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave their town as a testimony against them.”
— Luke 9:5 (NIV)
Over the years I have experienced life's disappointments. During those times I think how disappointment is a part of life. Jesus was no stranger to disappointment and rejection, either.
People rejected his ministry, and denied his existence continually. This is such an aspect of our daily lives that Jesus instructed the disciples that people and circumstances would disappoint them, and when this happens, they should shake the dust off their feet and move on.
There is a lot we can learn in handling our disappointments. Through my own disappointment I have learned each one is a challenge to contemplate and pray if a change is in order. If it is, I change whatever I felt God has brought to my mind to change. Otherwise, I use it as a challenge to try harder and not give up. I also use it as time to see what changes I can make to improve myself.
God is whispering to us, he understands our feelings. However, remaining stuck in our hurts and disappointments is not his way. He knows we can't live the abundant life awaiting us if we sit too long in pain over our disappointment. Through the acceptance of change and prayer for guidance, new directions can turn our emotional dust into gold dust, guiding us to new people, places and things for God's plan for us.
When the rejection of disappointment knocks on the door of our hearts, we can allow him to lead us to a new door of opportunity.
• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. Annettee will be speaking at Panera Bread in Round Lake Beach Thursday, April 16, at 7 p.m. Invite her to speak to your group or conference. Contact Annettee at Annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413.