When it comes to living on terra firma, we mortals soon get used to the reality of expecting the unexpected as a “normal” occurrence in life. Of the unexpected surprises that come our way, some are easy to embrace, while others are not. A number of the “not so easy to embrace” surprises leave us with no choice but force us to pass through them.

For example: Three years ago, my dear wife, Beryl, pressured me to submit myself to a full medical examination. For the sake of peace and harmony in our relationship, I reluctantly submitted my body for medical testing. One week later I received a phone call from my doctor inviting me to his office (Whenever a doctor telephones you, you can be sure the nature of the call is not going to be good). Well … surprise, surprise, his news was not good. Inside his office, he explained that my blood test revealed I had Leukaemia affected cells running through my body and, chemotherapy, in time, would be his recommended course of action.

That was the most unpleasant, unexpected surprise of my life. Now, whether I liked it or not, I was forced to pass through this experience … I had no choice but to suck it up. However, concerning my attitude, I had a choice to make; would I accept or would I reject this unexpected surprise?

In the time I have journeyed with the Lord, I have gained a clear-enough understanding concerning the right attitude to adopt in all circumstances, whether pleasant or unpleasant … expected or unexpected.  The Lord who loves me and knows all things had adequately prepared me for this unexpected shock surprise:

“Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet will I rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation” (Habakkuk  3:17-18)

“Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy” (James 2:2);

“Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17).

Suffering the effects of unpleasant, unexpected circumstances of life is not what the Scriptures teache followers of Jesus Christ to do. We are taught instead to accept them, whenever they come our way. Why? Paul says, “This is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17) … “God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:28).

What circumstances are you passing through at this moment? Whether pleasant or unpleasant, your attitude needs to be right. Accepting the unexpected is a prerequisite attitude of all followers of Jesus Christ, making it possible for the Lord to “cause everything to work together for good” in our lives.