Matthew 5:44-45, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous."

Romans 15:13, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Think

It's said that life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we respond to it. At the dawn of a new decade, 2020 offered so much promise. Then fast-forward three months and... Well, you know. It's so easy to look at all that's happening in our world with an attitude that's anything but grateful. But although we can't control the "10%," we can choose how we respond to the rest. It's all a matter of perspective.

No one could flip the script on people's perception of the world like Jesus. His words and actions completely contradicted cultural norms. Picture the puzzled look on people's faces as He said, "Not only should you love your enemies, you must pray for them, too!" Such talk was unheard of! Who was this man who spoke with such authority, dined with sinners, and laid His healing hands on lepers? How could He call Himself God's Son? Blasphemous! Right? No wonder Jesus was on the religious leader's Top 10 Most Wanted List!

Just as He did 2,000 years ago, the moment Jesus enters our lives, our hearts and minds open to a new perspective as we enter into a personal relationship with our loving Heavenly Father. We can flip the script on our lives because Jesus flipped the script for us! When we open our eyes to everything He's done for us, we can't help but have an attitude of gratitude. Even in the worst circumstances, we have the hope of heaven and we can have joy-filled hearts.

Whatever you're facing today, think like Jesus, flip the script, and give thanks!

Act

Write your biggest current struggle on a notecard. Now, flip it over and write Romans 15:13 on the opposite side. Keep it close and refer to it as a reminder that God is a God of hope, joy, peace, and power - made yours through the Holy Spirit. For an additional challenge, memorize the verse.

Pray

Heavenly Father, The world is challenging me from every side. It seems I'm being told how to think and respond at every turn. Help me to stop and filter it all through Your Word and remind me that You really are in control. I look to You, Lord, as my source of hope and peace. In Jesus' name, Amen!