"Everything I once held dear, I count it all as loss..."

I was randomly flipping through Life Lessons From Bible People.

Here's what I found with the first flip.

Disappointment Is Not Defeat

BARSABBAS

Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry. (Acts 1:24-25)

Judas was gone , and all the apostles decided he should be replaced. They narrowed their choices down to two men (Barsabbas and Matthias). Each of them met an important qualification : They had been followers of Jesus in the beginning. When lots were drawn, Matthias was added to the apostolic band. The prayer and the lots ensured that the choice was not a popular or political one but one in which God was involved.

Barsabbas may have been disappointed with the outcome , but he may just as well be relieved. In order to have been identified as a possible candidate, he must have already been active in the ministry. Perhaps God honored his willingness to serve by permitting him to serve in some other way.

Keeping our lives available to God may not mean we will be able to do everything we would like to do , or even what others would like us to do. Jobs will come and go ; doors will open and close ; opportunities will be presented and withdrawn. God is neither surprised nor caught off guard by such situations. He will continue to honor our willingness to be used in other ways.

For what recent "disappointment" do you need to be mindful that God is in complete control?

The last line literally jumped out at me.

God has his ways of getting to me.

Point proven.

AMEN!