Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones

God had asked Abraham to make the greatest sacrifice imaginable. Finally, Sarah did bring forth that promised child in her old age, and he became the light of Abraham’s life. His very name, Isaac, which means “laughter,” says it all. They loved that boy. But then God asked Abraham to sacrifice him.

In many ways, you would have to say that to be tested on this level was quite an honor because the Lord knew Abraham could handle it. God knew that Abraham would rally. He knew that Abraham would pass this test. He knew that Abraham would take this setback and turn it into an opportunity.

A disability can become an ability when it’s dedicated to God. Maybe you’re facing a hardship . . . a tragedy . . . the death of a loved one. My friend Joni Eareckson Tada, who became a quadriplegic due to a diving accident when she was teen, wrote these amazing words: “God’s power always shows up best in weakness. So here I sit . . . glad that I have not been healed on the outside, but glad that I have been healed on the inside. Healed from my own self-centered wants and wishes.” Joni has turned a disability into an ability. She has traveled around the world and inspired countless people.

Maybe you’re going through a test right now, and you’re saying you can’t handle it. Yes, you can. Otherwise, God would not allow you to go through it.

You can’t control what will happen in your life. All you get to do is decide how you will react to what comes your way. God is in control. You are not. But you can control what you do with what comes your way. World changers turn seeming setbacks into stepping stones.