Latest Devotion
Father Knows Best
By: John Carrigan
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
The false teachers in the Corinthian church were testing Paul's spiritual authority. In his letters, Paul challenged the church to test their own motives and hearts. Paul knew that self-examination is a key part of being grateful. When we examine ourselves honestly, it helps us remember how good God has been. Then, it gets much harder to complain about our everyday problems.
Yesterday, part of my day was spent waiting for some routine lab work to be drawn. The waiting room was busy, so it gave me an opportunity to “people watch”. I'm getting older, but that waiting room made me realize that I am doing better physically than many of the people I saw that day. It also reminded me of a story I once heard...
Once there was once a man who felt overwhelmed by his struggles. He was a believer, but he felt his "cross" was much too heavy. He cried out to Jesus in despair, complaining that his burdens were overwhelming him. Jesus answered by appearing to him in a dream and took him to a room filled with crosses. Then Jesus said, "My child, if your cross seems too heavy, lay it down and choose another one."
He set his cross down and attempted to pick up an elaborate, ornate, gold one. But he quickly realized that it was too heavy for anyone to bear. Next, he saw a beautiful cross that was completely covered in diamonds. But when he put it on his shoulder, the sharp edges of the diamonds cut deep into his skin. It was beautiful, but it was much too painful to carry.
Then he picked up a cross covered in roses. But when he picked it up, the hidden thorns stabbed his hands. Tired and discouraged, his eyes wandered to a simple wooden cross in the corner. It didn't look like much, but when he placed it on his shoulder, it fit perfectly and it wasn't heavy.
The man turned to Jesus and said, "Lord, I've found the one I want. I would like to exchange this one for mine." Jesus lovingly replied, "My child, that is the same cross you arrived with. It's the same one you've been carrying all along." When he woke up, the man was filled with peace. He realized that God had perfectly matched his burden with his strength.
Lord, help us trust you with the smallest details of our lives. Increase our faith and help us understand that you are fully aware of the burdens we are carrying!