Counting Every Oops
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

Counting Every Oops

We can choose to make the most out of unfortunate circumstances

35
Counting Every Oops

My high school English teacher told me that starting a paper with a question is bad form, so I will lead with a statement instead.

What if the hounds of hell were really the sheepdogs of heaven? It's an interesting question that lends itself to fairy tales about wolves dressed in sheep's clothing. It's a powerful question because it challenges preconceived notions that bad experiences can only be bad.

I came across this idea of hellhounds and sheepdogs earlier this week when reading an excerpt from Elizabeth Elliot's "Keep A Quiet Heart." She proposed that we take a second look at those ill-timed accidents and small inconveniences as more than what they seem. In the Bible, James warns of hardships in this life. Paul speaks of the refining work of sanctification. God promises to discipline those He loves. So the question follows: what if we viewed those hardships (red lights, missed alarms, coffee stains, relational conflicts) not as snarling wolves who wish us harm, but rather as obedient sheepdogs guiding us away from the broad path and into the straight and narrow; reminding our wayward hearts to seek the only One who can truly satisfy?

It was an interesting thought that gave me a new perspective. And it felt freeing. It's so burdensome to take offense at every inconvenience. And where on earth did I find the idea that I am somehow entitled to every green light and open parking spot? Who taught me to assume that I am somehow deserving of every discount and shortcut? Those are trivial examples, but it is those same trivial matters that most illuminate the posture of your heart. What do the road bumps of life reveal about the assumptions you have allowed to set camp in your heart?

The idea that every accident, whoops, and error are in some way intentional, encourages me. It reminds me that God is in control, and invites me to ask Him about His plan for today. Each time an inconvenience occurs in life, I stop and ask God how this moment may best glorify Him. Every little decision is a kingdom matter when you place it in the hands of the King. There is no choice too small or dilemma too silly that the Judge himself cannot guide us in the making.

Once or twice I have made a mistake in planning a trip or timing an outing. Okay, maybe more than several times. Most often, I ended up having a conversation or making an acquaintance that would not have otherwise happened. After enough of these "accidents" occurred for me to notice a trend, I asked God to let me in on His plans - even just a little bit. The results since then have been phenomenal.

Example: for reasons I won't delve into, I have memberships at two separate gyms. One evening after work, I found myself driving towards town, attempting to decide which gym to visit. A series of red lights slowed me down. I came to a literal fork in the road that forced me to make a split-second decision, and for whatever reason, I felt strongly compelled to visit one over the other. For more reasons which I will also not elaborate, the gym I chose was the least likely one for me to have picked. After arriving at the gym, I began warming up on the treadmill and was pleasantly surprised moments later when a girl I knew came by to say hello. She regularly went to this gym, and I had forgotten. After she walked away, I found myself backtracking my timeline only to realize that each red light had to happen so that I would be perfectly timed on the treadmill when that girl happened to walk in. Otherwise, I would've been on the opposite side of the building and would never have crossed paths with her. Furthermore, the encounter would never have taken place had I chosen the other gym. Long story short, I invited her to dinner after the gym and my roommate joined us for a lovely evening of uplifting fellowship!

My example could be classified as trivial, and perhaps it is. But the effect it had on our friendship was notable. Perhaps your "oops" moment looks completely different. But its eternal consequences could be significant.

My challenge to you? Don't take accidents at face value. Looks can be deceptive. Sheepdogs and hellhounds can appear the same - but they are servants of totally different masters. Next time you experience an oops, ask God to reveal how He's using that moment in the tapestry of your life. The answer may surprise you!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Featured

21 EDM Songs for a Non-EDM Listener

Ever wanted to check out EDM music, but didn't know where to start? Look no further! Start here.

1605
21 EDM Songs for a Non-EDM Listener
www.wallpapersafari.com

If you have been following me for a long time, then you know I write about two main things: relateable articles and communication media based articles. Now, it is time for me to combine the two. For those of you that don't know, I am a radio DJ at IUP, and I DJ for a show called BPM (Beats Per Minute). It is an EDM, or electronic dance music, based show and I absolutely love it.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

100 Reasons to Choose Happiness

Happy Moments to Brighten Your Day!

21302
A man with a white beard and mustache wearing a hat

As any other person on this planet, it sometimes can be hard to find the good in things. However, as I have always tried my hardest to find happiness in any and every moment and just generally always try to find the best in every situation, I have realized that your own happiness is much more important than people often think. Finding the good in any situation can help you to find happiness in some of the simplest and unexpected places.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

6 Things Owning A Cat Has Taught Me

This one's for you, Spock.

7950
6 Things Owning A Cat Has Taught Me
Liz Abere

Owning a pet can get difficult and expensive. Sometimes, their vet bills cost hundreds of dollars just for one visit. On top of that, pets also need food, a wee wee pad for a dog, a litter box with litter for a cat, toys, and treats. Besides having to spend hundreds of dollars on them, they provide a great companion and are almost always there when you need to talk to someone. For the past six years, I have been the proud owner of my purebred Bengal cat named Spock. Although he's only seven years and four months old, he's taught me so much. Here's a few of the things that he has taught me.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

Kinder Self - Eyes

You're Your Own Best Friend

8949
Kinder Self - Eyes
Pexels

It's fun to see all of the selfies on social media, they are everywhere. I see pictures with pouty lips, duck lips and pucker lips. I see smokey eyes, huge fake lashes and nicely done nose jobs, boob jobs and butt lifts. Women working out in spandex, tiny tops and flip flops. I see tight abs and firm butts, manicured nails and toes, up dos and flowing hair. "Wow", I think to myself," I could apply tons of make-up, spend an hour on my hair, pose all day and not look like that. Maybe I need a longer stick!"

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

Rap Songs With A Deeper Meaning

Rap is more than the F-bomb and a beat. Read what artists like Fetty, Schoolboy Q, Drake, and 2Pac can teach you.

26521
Rap artist delivers performance on stage
Photo by Chase Fade on Unsplash

On the surface, rap songs may carry a surface perception of negativity. However, exploring their lyrics reveals profound hidden depth.Despite occasional profanity, it's crucial to look beyond it. Rap transcends mere wordplay; these 25 song lyrics impart valuable life lessons, offering insights that extend beyond the conventional perception of rap music.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments