We usually think of "opportunity" as our own chance to take a significant step ahead in life. We love the idea of an open door or a favorable moment to seize the chance of a lifetime. But do we ever think of opportunity from God's perspective?

Pastor Browning Ware has written: "Our worst circumstances may be God's best opportunity to bring new meaning to our lives." J. B. Phillips said something similar: "Man's extremity is God's opportunity."

This principle was true in the apostle Paul's life, and I suspect it's true in our experience as well. In his second letter to the believers in Corinth, Paul recalled a time when he and his companions were under great pressure, far beyond their ability to endure. They even thought they were going to die (2 Cor. 1:8). But Paul said that during those troubled times they learned to put their trust not in themselves "but in God who raises the dead" (v.9).

As you look at your life, do you recognize the opportunities for God to teach you? It may be during times of hurt or great loss; or maybe you've come to the end of yourself and given up hope.

Your worst circumstance may be God's best opportunity. Trust Him. He will bring new meaning to your life.  — David C. McCasland