Coping with frustrations

All of us struggle with frustration at times. The circumstances can be different, but the result is the same: frustration! Where’s the joy and peace of God? Can I be honest with you? I hate traffic jams and waiting in lines. I’m not sure why these situations bother me so much. I’ve tried many ways to cope with my sudden loss of joy or peace. It’s often been embarrassing and discouraging.

Do you ever lose your joy because of frustrations?

You can change situations by using a secret battle plan that I’ve learned through trial and error. Lots of errors, I must confess. I tried praying about my frustration with lines and traffic jams, asking Jesus to help me, but nothing seemed to change. Not until I put into practice this battle plan that has worked well for me:

1. Ask Jesus for the gift of joy.
2. Prepare yourself for the inevitable delays.
3. Listen to calming Christian music.
4. Immediately forgive the bad drivers or rude people in line.

Have you developed your battle plan? I’d like to encourage you to make a plan and invite the Lord into the events that seem to bring the worst out of you.

Paul the Apostle found his secret plan: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6, NIV).

I haven’t won every battle over frustration, but I have a plan that helps me. How about you? Would you like to start your plan with prayer? Here is a simple one: “Jesus, please help me ‘cause these people are driving me crazy. Amen.”

One last thought... are circumstances controlling you, or are you controlling your responses? I know you can win this battle. You will find your joy again when you find the Lord in every situation. Then you will change the atmosphere by the grace of God.

You are a miracle!

Your friend, Paul Marc Goulet

P.S. The texts of this reading come from the daily email A Miracle Every Day. If you want to receive an email every day, I invite you to subscribe to A Miracle Every Day.