Bread for the JourneySample

All the Colors

When I look at a box of colored pencils, I don't know about you, but my eyes go to the bright and cheerful colors. Nevertheless, there are some areas where I need to use the ones I like the least, but I use them because they are the most suitable for those parts. When I finish coloring what I'm working on and contemplate “my masterpiece,” everything looks just the way I like it. The colors I don't like as much have become part of the whole, creating a beautiful harmony that makes me proud of the time I invested in the drawing I colored.

Doesn't it seem like that's what happens on the canvas of our lives? There are things we love and enjoy immensely, the things we wish were always present and never missing. But there are also the less desirable ones, those that somehow disrupt the “comfort” we are used to. So, there will be brushstrokes that light up our existence and others that seem to dull or certainly do dull the picture of our lives.

What should encourage us is the glorious truth revealed to us in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (NIV) So, following the example of what I've been talking about, "all things" includes all the colors, the ones we like and the ones we don't.

The result is good; both pleasant and adverse times work in our lives in such a way that ultimately everything works for our good.

I admit it's not easy, and there are moments so difficult and painful that we can't easily brush them off with an illustration of colored pencils. Perhaps it helps us process the reality that life doesn't always offer us beautifully blue and clear skies. Certainly, there will be times of storm and even tempestuous weather, but God gives us the blessing of knowing that His plan for us is perfect. His presence, His company, His strength, and even His power are a guarantee of triumph and victory for us.

Jesus has told us that we will have trouble in this world, meaning the colors poured onto our lives won't always be the most beautiful. But His words give us rest and are a refreshment for our souls. Knowing that we can trust because He has overcome the world and that everything will work out for us encourages us so that, whether we walk through delicate pastures or face valleys of pain, we know that He is our shepherd.

Let's rest in His arms of love and give thanks in all circumstances, because that is His will. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV)