Frustrated? Try God’s Solution

Have you ever needed something to work fast—and it didn't? 

A few years ago I needed to get into a computer software program to read for a seminary project. I had been using the software for over a month but on this particular morning, a screen popped up and said the contents were locked because I hadn't registered it.If you're like me, you aren’t very careful about following directions. It just isn't something you take seriously—until whatever it is breaks down, refuses to cooperate, or blows up!I was so frustrated stewing over the “stupid” program (not the “stupid” operator!) and wondering how I was going to activate my expensive piece of software.Driving to seminary the next morning, and still fretting, the Lord brought Philippians 4:6-7 to mind: 

"Do not worry (or, be anxious) about anything, but in everything by

prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made

known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all

understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

 What was God saying to me? How about, “Poppy, TRUST ME. Put your confidence in Me. I will either solve the problem for you, or give you the peace and patience you need to deal with it.”It’s so easy to fret. To worry. To be anxious. To refuse to hand over our concerns and burdens to the One who invites us to: “Cast all your anxiety on Me, because I care for you.” In l Peter 5:5-9, the apostle continues by giving us powerful advice for when we fret: 

Discipline yourselves. Keep alert. Satan is looking for

someone to devour. Resist him. Stand firm in your faith." 

 But, what are we supposed to discipline? 

• Could it be our minds, our anxious thoughts, or our habit to think the worst? 
• Could it be our tendency to get discouraged and depressed with yet another trial? 

Peter says exactly what we need to do and why:

• Keep alert —when you are discouraged, realize what is happening.
• Satan is prowling around trying to fill you with anger, frustration, despair, or whatever else he knows will undermine your joy and faith in Christ.

Giving my frustrations to God that morning did not resolve the problem. But God did give me the patience I needed to trace and contact the company. He also provided a very kind and understanding agent who registered me on the spot and sent me a brand new disk!Q. How do you usually handle frustration? What could you start doing instead?Blessings,   Poppy SmithInternational speaker, multi-published author, Bible teacher, and spiritual coachInspiring Women to Thrive!