Throughout my life I’ve visited many places. Some plain, some exotic, some calm and others thrilling.

Each of these places had its own unique memories. Each of these places had me think, “hmm I wonder what it would be like to live here.” Each of these places had me question if this could be my utopia.

No matter how much fun or relaxation I experienced at each place, I realized what I want most has been right in front of me all along.

After each visit to a different place, once I’m back home, I utter to myself, “this place has always been the same. It’s just I see it differently.”

It’s so tempting for us to say, “if only I lived somewhere else,” “If only I had a more exciting job.” “If only I were married.” “If only I were single.” “If only I had a bigger house.” “If only I could be more like them.” If only_______________. But often we believe a myth that whatever is different than what we have must be better.

Unfortunately, we see and focus on the flaws and cracks in what’s right in front of us. We see the weaknesses and stains in our lives. We don’t see those messes in others’ social media post, so we’re tempted to think, “having what they have or doing what they do must be the key to happiness.” That’s why the Apostle Paul said, “for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content (Philippians 4:11 ESV).

Now don’t misunderstand me. I’m in no way saying we shouldn’t dream, plan and pursue new ventures. However, what I am saying is enjoy where God currently has you. What I am saying is maximize where God currently has you. What I am saying is being content where God currently has you….meaning be grateful. What I am saying is, be careful in being absolute in what “you want.”

There have been times in my life when I decided “this is what I want” only to understand that what I really longed for was entirely different than “what God wants.” God has protected me from myself more times than I can count. At the time I probably complained but now, I’m forever grateful.

I think the most extraordinary discovery is to realize the life we want is the one we’re already living. Not because it’s perfect or flawless or without struggles, but because it’s the one that truly belongs to us. And within that to discover the person we want to be is ourselves, even though we’re in a constant process of progression.

Where you are now is where God needs you to be. I understand some right now situations might look bleak. But nothing is bleak or impossible when viewed through the lens of The Lord.

Where you are now in life has a purpose for you and a purpose for someone else.

Where you are in life encompasses a lesson for you.

Where you are in life is intended to build and prepare you for the next step.

Where you are now is purging you.

Where you are now is designed to give God all the glory.

There’s a freedom in embracing where we are and who we are in this present moment. It’s a freedom that has been won for us through the blood of Jesus Christ. It’s a freedom worth fighting for and celebrating.

Prayer: Heavenly Father in the Name of Jesus, I believe that You work all things for good. Even when something else seems better. I’m choosing to trust that You know the end from the beginning and You don’t make mistakes. When I’m tempted to look over the fence with displeasure of my life, Holy Spirit empower me to gratefully embrace what’s right in front of me, endow me with patience and glorify You with all I have. Amen.

PEARLStoPONDER: God’s no or not right now, doesn’t mean you can’t have it. He just wants to see if you’re content(grateful) with what He’s already provided for you.

Matthew 6:25-26-- ²⁵ “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? ²⁶ Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?

Romans 8:28-- And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good,^[a] for those who are called according to his purpose.

1 Corinthians 7:24-- So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.

1 Corinthians 10:13--  No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

2 Corinthians 12:10--  For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Philippians 4:11--  For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

1 Timothy 6:6-8-- ⁶ But godliness with contentment is great gain, ⁷ for we brought nothing into the world, and^[a] we cannot take anything out of the world. ⁸ But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.