Every circumstance is an opportunity we can steward. This is true at home, at work, in relationships, and in every other facet of our lives. The question is: Will we make choices that are wise or unwise?
Since “the days are evil”, the path of least resistance is to make unwise choices. Our world bombards us with enticements to be unwise. Many of them boil down to some version of “Transfer your money to us and your life will be better.” Whether it is a beverage, a pair of shoes, or an exotic excursion, all promise to bring us fulfillment. But of course they don’t.
Any time we approach an opportunity with the perspective that “This new thing will make me happy”, we are sinking into the world’s deception. Happiness is not founded in changing venues or getting “more”. That isn’t even logical. If happiness is “getting more”, then happiness is impossible. Once I get “more” then I will now need “more.” “More” is unobtainable.
Happiness is rooted in wisdom. Wisdom is rooted in understanding God’s will. It is rooted in following the paths Jesus has laid out for us. The path of love and service in the everyday activities of life.
Life is not about what happens to us. It is about what we do in response to what happens. Circumstances are just the arena in which life plays itself out. We are the players. Our choices are the tools. If we want to live a life of peace and joy, it won’t come from complaining until we get moved to a different arena. It comes from excellent stewardship of our power to choose in whatever arena we occupy.