Opportunity
Jed N. Snyder, D. Min., CNC., President/Founder Jesus Every Day Ministries, Inc.
www.jedministries.com — jsnyder@jedministries.com
There is a fascinating story that we all can consider. There was a man who was having a very successful campaign. He had seen many unusual amazing and events. People were following his advice and even his opponents were being “turned.” Then in a quick moment, he moved from this situation to one which seemed most unlikely. He was sent to a desert highway. He was not sure of what was ahead. But because he trusted the advice he had been given he went to this unlikely place. Things got even more interesting when he was told to approach a complete stranger. This stranger was an important governmental leader. When a stranger approaches an important person without an intermediary, the results often are not pleasant. But this man proceeded. What he found made him realize that this sudden departure from apparent success to an uncertain situation was truly a great opportunity.
Opportunities are often disguised with uncertainty and even danger. Is the outcome worth the risk? Is that which must be left behind too important or too precious? When is an opportunity just a foolish undertaking and when is it a wise albeit risky adventure.
If you are familiar with the New Testament, you may recognize the story of Philip when he was directed by an angel from the Lord to leave his successful work to go to one individual who he has never met. The Treasurer of Ethiopia was reading about Jesus Christ from a prophetic passage. Philip was needed to explain the message, lead this official to faith, baptize him, and send him home with a commission to share the message with others. I wish I could have observed this moneyman explain to the Queen the message of faith in Jesus Christ.
When opportunity is real and advice is trustworthy, one should welcome it even when it is full of difficulty and uncertainty. Why not consider those unexpected challenges as new opportunities and evaluate if the one giving advice is worthy. If the advice comes from an angel of the Lord, it can be trusted. Just be sure it is the right kind of angel. If the advice come from the Bible and it is understood with the help of godly men and women, then take the wisdom and enter the opportunity. Maybe you will reach a new nation just like Philip did!
Remember that all of us believers have this wonderful promise-
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. The Holy Bible, Philippians 4:13.
May many wonderfully difficult opportunities be yours.