That's not the whole story
A little while ago, I saw the trailer for a movie and thought, I definitely don’t want to see that. The preview convinced me that the film’s plot was shallow and bizarre—something I had no interest in whatsoever.
But then, for some reason, after adding this movie to my do-not-watch list, I got curious and decided to watch anyway. Shockingly, the film was the exact opposite of what I thought it would be. It was engrossing and an overall good flick. The plot had depth. The characters were well-developed. The story kept me guessing. The acting was superb.
Once the credits rolled, I realized that my biased film analysis had been based on a two-minute preview. I almost let my preconceived notions rob me of a great viewing experience. That goes to show you, you can’t necessarily judge a movie by its preview or a book by its cover.
In Scripture, the prophet Habakkuk’s distress was temporarily caused by “previews” of the story of Judah during the final days of the Assyrian empire and the beginning of the Babylonian invasion in Habakkuk 1. Though God had promised to deliver and rescue His people, the snippets of reality Habakkuk saw told a grisly tale of destruction. Then, when Habakkuk cried out to God for more insight and clarity, the Lord did not answer (v. 2).
The previews were discouraging and made it seem like God’s chosen ones would endure ongoing violence, injustice and cruelty forever. But God told Habakkuk that the circumstantial previews were not accurate representations of the full story. Israel’s rescue would come at the appointed time (Habakkuk 2:2-3). And surely, it did. The strong villains were defeated, the opposition failed, and the underdogs triumphed.
“Circumstances are deceptive, but God’s word is true. Even when your situation looks bad, the word assures you that all things are working together for your good. Stand on that today! ”
I wonder what the “previews” in your life are telling you. Surely, in some areas, what you’re seeing paints a narrative and draws a conclusion that differs from the one you are praying, hoping and believing to see. This is why you can’t let slices of life, temporary problems and seasonal difficulties shape your perspective. Otherwise, you will be convinced that this is the way things will be for all time, and it will be impossible to trust God for better days, greater breakthroughs and positive outcomes.
Granted, your current season may point toward struggle, lack, sickness, sorrow, loss and brokenness. But believers should never trust circumstantial previews; we must always trust God (Proverbs 3:5). It is He who gives us insight into His word and assures us of His promises. When you trust the author of the story, who is also “the author and finisher of your faith” (Hebrews 12:2), you can remain confident that, in the end, your story will be one of victory, increase, healing, joy, restoration and wholeness.
Friend, God, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last, has already written every chapter of your story. He knows the end from the beginning. And based on His word, the conclusion of the whole matter is found in a very familiar passage of Scripture that I’m stirring into your cup of inspiration. It says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 NIV).
As you drink down the contents of your cup, let your perspective and expectations be shaped by what God says and not what you see. And He says, He will turn this around in your favor!
Now, let’s pray.
God, thank You for reminding me that You have written the story of my life. And even though every chapter isn’t a good one, I know the plans You have for me are good, even when circumstances are not. Therefore, I expect a favorable outcome, because You are faithful to perform Your word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you desire prayer, please allow me, along with my intercessory prayer team, to stand in faith with you for breakthrough. We would be so honored. We have seen God work over and over again. There is power in agreement. Click here to request prayer now.
As always, thanks for reading and until next time... may today's cup of inspiration uplift, encourage, and empower you!
