There are many appointments in life; some more important than others. Some are non-discretionary - they are made for us. Others are discretionary. We make them for ourselves. Some are incidental. Some will affect our eternal destiny. "It is appointed for men once to die, and then the judgment." (Hebrews 9:27).

Solomon reminds us that there are a variety of appointed happenings in life. "There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven -- A time to give birth, and a time to die; A time to plant, and a time to uproot what is planted." (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2).

Life's appointments are not easy, whether it be childbirth, sowing a field, building up a business or downsizing. Life has its inevitable rewards and troubles (Job 5:7). There are good times and bad times. Some of life's experiences can be exhilarating. Some can be disappointing. Destructive storms and calamity come upon both the wise and the foolish, the righteous and unrighteous (Matthew 7:25; Luke 13:2-4).

How do we handle these appointments? So much of what happens is unfathomable to the natural mind (Ecclesiastes 3:11; 1Corinthians 2:9). However by maintaining communion with the Holy Spirit we can have confidence that there is a purpose in everything.

Happiness depends upon what happens. Joy is the result of recognizing the unseen reality of God's unfolding plan and His loving presence. Happiness is a response to certain conditions. Joy is a response to a fulfilled condition - God is present. He cares, He is all powerful and He has a plan. This is why the Apostle Paul reminds us to rejoice always (1Thessalonians 5:16).

There are times for celebration, and times for humiliation and sorrow. Jesus said "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." We should not fear any experience when we can recognize God is there with us in it.

How we respond to an event is a matter of our personal discretion. We can choose to interpret an event as either a disappointment or His appointment.

In the acknowledgement of His presence,

David MacAdam, Pastor/Teacher
New Life Community Church