Snagged

“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Have you ever snagged a line while fishing? One thing worse could have happened: a big fish on the line caused the snag, and it got away, hook and cork attached to its mouth. A thread in your favorite sweater caught on your bracelet; a tree fell across the road, and, you must turn around; an unexpected fender-bender. Snags happen.

Every day we face problems of some sort. Some are big, some are small and hardly noticeable, yet both are irritating. So, what should we do when faced with life’s snags? The key to overcoming obstacles is to be joyful, pray continually (v. 16, 17), and be thankful. We can pray without ceasing because prayer can happen anywhere at any time. But to always be joyful and grateful? If you can think of no other reason, rejoice because Jesus died in your place. Gratitude from that standpoint will lead to further joy because of what He’s done in your life.

You listen as a youngster tells of his day fishing and being the only one going home “fishless” until suddenly, he snagged one. And it was a big one—one that someone else lost because it had a hook and cork dangling from its mouth! Hearing his story and seeing the excitement on his face, would that not give you reason to say, “Thank you, Lord, for saving that fish for him?” Even though you know there are plenty of fish, God allowed you to be part of his blessing and gave you cause to rejoice. That sweater with a pulled thread—be thankful you have one, and the snag is not so bad. The tree and the accident that delayed, postponed, or canceled your plans could have been deterrents to something far worse on the path ahead. Snags are sometimes reminders for us to pause and look to God.

Now, consider the good snags. What? Do you think there are no good ones? What about that great deal you snagged with the online order that offered a discount at checkout or that “blue light special” when you just happened to be in the store? Did you snag another big fish, one that you brought home? Yes, there are good snags, blessings we unexpectedly catch.

God is in control. He works all things together for good to those who love Him (Romans 8:28). What He works out may not be intended for you, but someone else, and will always be for the greater good. Trust His wisdom. Rejoice, pray, and give thanks—this is God’s will for us.