When God created everything, it was designed to function and flourish in a specific determined environment. The conditions were such that all that was created met certain specifications to see that they had the ability to grow and multiply. Thus, everything that was created was placed in a state to reach its full potential. Even man was placed in his perfect environment, the Garden of Eden. Unfortunately, Adam and Eve made a decision to disrupt this perfect setting that God had created for them. We all make decisions that affect our circumstances that can foster our success or hinder our progress.

Jesus also was challenged with life that caused Him to consider making changes in His environment. In Matthew 9:18-25 we read of the account of Jairus’s daughter. Jesus had to change the setting when He arrived at the man’s house before He could answer his request. He changed the environment by putting the noisy disorderly crowd out before He raised the little girl from the dead. Changes had to be made as the places that He sometimes found Himself did not meet the surroundings needed for Him to perform miracles or minister to those in need. He even had to change His environment to have intimate time with His Heavenly Father. He would often go to the mountains, the wilderness, or any solitary place to pray and seek guidance.

What does this say to us about controlling our environment? If Jesus had to do so, how much more should we? We all may need to change our circumstances periodically to fulfill the things that God wants us to do. This may mean we need to separate ourselves from certain individuals as Jesus did. We may need to occasionally close our computers and ignore social media. Practice restraint in checking our cell phones every time it rings or vibrates. We may need to spend more time in our quiet place as we seek guidance and direction from our Heavenly Father. We all can control our environment, if we choose, to see that we can be more available for His use and purpose. God’s blessings, protection, and favor to all.

Benny Nolen
Director
Joseph's Storehouse