The NIV 365 Day Devotional
When Parts Break
Cut tires. Brakes that flame out. Suspension parts that break. Engines that reach their RPM limits and blow. These are the constant worry and struggle of the crews who strive to keep their racing teams in the game.
In this fallen world, we also experience the brokenness that has been brought about by sin. Physically, our parts start to wear out after a while. Our joints ache, our muscles get sore, and we wonder what happened to the energy and vigor we once had. As one wise person once quipped, “After age 50, there ain’t no stopping that old check engine light that comes on.”
In addition, mental issues can come to us at any age. The stress of living in this fallen world can stop us in our tracks and lead to depression and anxiety that hampers our performance in the race of life.
When we look to God for direction and strength during these times, our heavenly “parts supplier” knows just what we need, and he’s more than willing to provide those good things that are part of his will: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
So what do we do when we experience these difficulties? We reach out to others to get help, and we also turn to God in prayer. The apostle Paul encouraged his readers, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18).
Taken from the NIV Fuel for the Race of Life New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs.