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Life Over Coffee Devotions
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him (James 1:12).
Have you ever felt like your parents, teachers, or other authority figures were too tough on you? Maybe you’ve thought, “They don’t understand me,” or “They don’t give me what I deserve.” The truth is, everyone has difficult people in their lives—no exceptions. And here’s the reality: there will always be someone in your life who disappoints you and doesn’t meet your expectations.
For example, someday, you’ll have a boss. Every job comes with one; no matter your profession, there will always be an authority over you. Even if you’re self-employed, your customers will be—somewhat—authorities. And when that day comes, guess what? Your boss won’t be perfect either. If you get married, you’ll quickly realize you’ve married another imperfect person. If you don’t learn now how to live with or respond well to disappointing people, your future troubles will multiply.
I used to think most of my problems came from my parents. Then I got a job and realized my frustrations at work were eerily similar to the ones I had at home. The issue wasn’t my parents or my boss—it was me. Thankfully, God stepped into my life and gave me another perspective. When I was born again (John 3:7), He helped me see that I had been living with a victim mentality. I had been blaming others for my struggles instead of taking responsibility for my reactions and trusting Him to guide me.
If you think your parents are hard, and your first reaction is sinful anger or frustration toward them, brace yourself. Life will be hard for you until you address the real problem: your own heart. Your parents, your boss, or anyone else aren’t your biggest issue or barrier to a successful life. You are. But there is hope: the sooner you apply gospel truths to your life, the better it will be.
Instead of blaming others, ask God to reorient your thinking and help you respond to disappointment with humility. Jesus modeled this for us. Though He was treated unfairly, He entrusted Himself to God (1 Peter 2:23). His example shows us how to rise above frustration and trust God’s plan.
Let’s live boldly, choosing humility and trust in the One who never disappoints.
Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.
In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).