The Heart of Frustration

Frustration is defined on my smart phone as, "An act of hindering someone's plans or efforts... a feeling of annoyance at being hindered or criticized... a feeling that accompanies an experience of being thwarted in attaining your goals."

I believe the answer should be obvious but, have you ever been frustrated? You bought into a message of hope and soon realized that your world has diminished. You brought a life into your family and watched as your dreams crumbled from addictive behavior. A prayer was offered and the oil applied and yet they died. A contract was notarized and  now the courts are intervening.

There may be some who would purposely hinder your efforts. But hopefully you are surrounded by more who cheer you forward. I read where God has made plans for you and they are for your good. So, I must wonder... does God ever become frustrated? Does anything ever hinder Him; is He ever thwarted in attaining a goal?

I can see different sides of an answer to this. Yes He has been frustrated by the autonomy of humanity. No, He is never frustrated - He is omnipotent God and has never been thwarted.

Let me ask, if all things work for good, then is it even possible for someone to hinder your plans or efforts? Could it just be an adjustment towards a better direction and end? Is life like your TomTom or Magellan? A detour here, a wrong turn there, a misguided addressed entered, does not really hinder your journey. The little voice quickly redirects to your destination.

At first, it may feel awkward to be taken down roads you have never traveled. Yet, with experience you begin to realize that you always end up where you were headed. A few extra miles may have resulted but the destination is the same. Now, when you take a wrong turn you are calm. You find yourself trusting that your GPS system will quickly adjust. Without any worries you follow the new directions to completion.

Next time someone interferes with your goal, drop the frustration. When you begin feeling that the person is thwarting your direction... Stop, listen for the internal voice of God as He redirects your journey. The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord (Bible). He has a plan for you and is working to make all things good. He is not frustrated. So crawl into His lap and let Him safely guide you. Give your worry and frustration to Him. He can handle it.