Scripture Study
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” — Romans 8:28
“Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air… but only for one second without hope.” — Hal Lindsey
There was an experiment done in 1950 where they placed rats in a bucket that was deep enough that they could not touch the bottom, and there was no way for them to get out of the top. The rats swam for about 15 minutes before giving up and drowning.
They repeated the experiment a second time, but this time, right when the rats gave up, they took them out of the water, dried them off, and let them rest. Then they placed them back in the water, and this time the rats were able to tread water for over 60 hours.
The conclusion was that the difference was hope. They had experienced being rescued before, so they had a reason to keep going. If they kept going, there was a chance they would be saved. It had happened in the past, so maybe it could happen again.
Where Is Your Focus?
As you go through your day—your job, family responsibilities, and all the other things that keep you busy—do you still find yourself asking, why am I here? Do you ever feel like the rat in the first round and wonder, why should I keep going?
Sometimes life can feel like a constant struggle. But ask yourself this question: Where is my focus?
Are you focused on God, or are you focused on your circumstances?
Are you focused on getting a better job, fixing your marriage, making more money, or just having an easier life?
Our hope is ultimately found in Christ. When we put our hope in Him, He is the one who gives us the strength to keep going. He is also the one who gives our lives true purpose.
Anchored in Christ’s Purpose
When you understand that God created you, knows you, and has a purpose for your life, it changes the way you look at your circumstances. You may not understand your current situation, and you may not see how God is going to use it, but Romans 8:28 reminds us that God is still at work, and He can work through all of it for good according to His purpose.
Your circumstances don’t have to determine your hope—Christ does.
So, when life gets difficult and you start asking, “Why am I here?” remember that God has not forgotten you. He created you, He knows you, and He has a purpose for your life.
Where is your hope today: your circumstances or Christ?
Have a great day in Christ,
Matt
