Rejection = Opportunity - Encouragement Café - Apr. 1, 2014

Rejection = Opportunity

Café Menu for Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Today’s Special is: How will you use it?

Carefully prepared just for you by your friend, Jill Beran

Main Ingredient:

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do no be afraid; do not be discouraged.

-Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

Entrée:

Rejection comes in all shapes and sizes. It can happen anywhere, anytime and to anyone. Sometimes we’re rejected in relationships and others it’s our calling. Rejection can be hard and it usually hurts, but have you ever looked at it as an opportunity?

Recently, in the midst of rejection, I was challenged to do just that. Though I felt depressed and a bit discouraged, I wondered, “Lord, what’s your purpose for this?” Friend, I sensed a three-part answer.

• Rejection was an opportunity to experience God’s protection. Though I thought I wanted what was taken away, God sees the big picture. He gives me what I need and keeps me from what I don’t. (Philippians 4:19) Rejection is protection.
• Rejection also lends itself to God’s provision. A friend once told me, “Every no is one step closer to God’s perfect yes.” In the moment of rejection this may not be what we want to hear, but in the reality of life it’s a truth I’ve seen unfold. (Jeremiah 29:11)
• Finally, rejection, like every other struggle in life, is an opportunity to experience God’s presence. Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Friend, no matter how the world rejects you, God is always with you. It may feel like He’s not there, but feelings lie and His Word is Truth. Seek Him in times of rejection and you will experience His presence and be upheld by His power.

Rejection isn’t something any of us willingly choose, but it is something God can always use. When rejection comes, because it will, may we remember God is with us. He is working for us and walking beside us. Our plans may change and our feelings may get hurt, but His purpose will prevail and His promises will prove true.

Take Out:

Think about the rejection you are struggling with, and I challenge you to remember it is an opportunity. Friend, share your pain with God and ask Him to help you view and use this opportunity in the right way. In your pain, pray for a heart to embrace His protection, a mind that trusts His provision and eyes that see His presence.

And friend, if you’re tempted to feel rejected by God meditate on our key verse for today… He is with you and will never leave you!

Dessert:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You Lord for loving me and reminding me of Your Truth. Help me keep my eyes on You, especially in times of rejection. May I remember that You can use all things for my good and Your glory. Give me a heart that trusts, and take away the desire to lean on my own understanding. Thank You for Your protection, provision and presence! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

© 2014 by Jill Beran. All rights reserved.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? Pull up a chair… He’s been waiting for you.

Need a refill?Please join us at the Encouragement Café with Luann and Friends.

The conversation at the Café is always hot and fresh. We invite you to listen in as Luann and Friends gather around the table to discuss everyday life.

Comfort food for your soul is always on our menu, and friends are always close enough to hug. We invite you to join us daily, as our writer’s share how the Lord continues to transform them into His glorious image.

Still craving more…Join us as we grow together in grace and truth through our online bible study. 

Stop by Encouragement Café and listen as the girls share life. Find podcasts, videos, Bible studies, prayer, resources and daily helpings of hope, laughter and friendship around our table. We've saved a seat just for you!