Ecclesiastes 9:11, “I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.”

So this was a crazy week at work. New computer equipment, new technology, not a lot of training, and a very heavy case load. All of these factors (and a few more) combined to make a very frustrating work week.

The Bible says that time and chance happens to all of us. It is not realistic to believe that you will never find yourself in the midst of frustrating circumstances. After all, we are built to survive tough times, and to thrive in spite of them!

Contrary to popular belief – God does not always remove you from tough or difficult situation. He is, however, excellent at extending his grace as you face and deal with them. He promised not to put more on us than we can bear.

So if you find yourself between a rock and a hard place, take heart. You are there because God knew you could handle it!

Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

So my solution…I stepped away from my office and took a walk outside. I began to sing. I sang old songs from church and I just talked to the Lord.

By the time I made it back to my office, I felt so much better. This taught me an important lesson – not to let the frustrations of life penetrate inward.

As followers of Christ, we should be able to be in an adverse situation without allowing the negativity of it to penetrate who we are. We are instructed to be in the world, but not of this world (1 John 2:15-17).

When you begin to feel overwhelmed – take a break (even if you can only take a bathroom break), step away from the situation. Take a deep breath, and remember who you are and whose you are. Focus your mind on the Lord and give him praise. Praise until you feel free. Then give the situation to God.

Yes, you will head back and face the situation. But you are now spiritually refreshed. Your are now strengthened, and able to handle anything. You have not allowed the negativity to impact who you are.

Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

It is important not to take adverse or negative situations personal. This can be hard, I know. But by keeping that distance you allow the peace of God to do it’s work.

You will be able to function, and do what needs to be done – effectively.

The peace of God, will surround and insulate you.

Frustration successfully dealt with. And the bonus is that God received the glory through it all.

I hope this helps you as it helped me.

Have a blessed night!