February 21, 2022

Last week, I started some seedlings in pots; I had some petunias, sweet peas, and a few other things growing. I got up yesterday, and something had been eating them. I had to find a way to keep the critters out of them. The starter packs came with clear plastic lids, so I got the bright idea to cover them with the lids. When I returned home later in the afternoon, the sun had cooked all the plants. I had stacked disappointment on top of disappointment and was devastated. Okay, I know what your thinking; they’re only plants. I know, but I was excited to add them to my garden as vegetable companion plants. Besides that, I was looking forward to having beautiful colors in my garden, and growing them from seeds was satisfying. My day started sadly and ended badly, but I’m determined and will start them again, but this time I need a better plan. You live, and you learn. 

How do you handle disappointment? Do you shut down or pick yourself up and try again? In many cases, giving up is not an option. When God gave me the word persevere for this year, I knew I would face challenges, and how I react to the challenges I face will determine if I’m a fighter or a coward. I’m no coward! The plants were just a test; I pray my challenges don’t get any more complicated than this, but if they do, I will sleep in my armor and keep going. I encourage you to stay steadfast and unmovable and look straight ahead when facing adversity. Stand firm, mighty warriors of God! God is in control, but you determine your reaction.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4