Bloom Where You’re Planted

I want you to know, brethren, that the things
which happened to me have actually turned out
for the furtherance of the Gospel, so that it has become
evident to the whole palace guard, and
to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ.

Philippians 1:12-13

Do you complain about your circumstances at times? Wish you lived in a different state or neighborhood or had a different job? Lament decisions you made or mourn trials that resulted in where you stand today? We’ve all done these things at one time or another. But we can follow Paul’s example and choose to bloom where we’re planted. He did—even when he was in prison.

Paul saw—and used—the blessings of his situation. From prison he could serve God as a witness to the Roman guards who watched over him day in and day out. He wrote letters to inspire and teach others. He was an example of boldness and faithfulness to those who feared persecution.

My friend, are you chained to something? Or, to put it another way, what are your divinely appointed circumstances? Are you a wife, a mom, a single woman, a widow, a homemaker, an employee? Consider how your situation is a blessing, and how your circumstances can help you serve Christ and further His cause.

When we choose to bloom where our all-wise God plants us, we will one day be able to declare with Paul, “I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel.”

God, help me accept where I am now and see the blessings and opportunities that are right here. May I embrace what You’re doing in my life so I can share with others the wonders of Your great purposes. Amen.

Read Bloom Where You’re Planted on Elizabeth & Jim George.