The following story was told by A.W. Tozer: "A simplehearted man was asked how he managed to live in such a state of tranquility even though he was surrounded by adverse circumstances. His reply was profound, yet simple: 'I have learned to cooperate with the inevitable!' "

Very few of us practice this wise and practical approach to life. Tozer commented that many of us fight against and complain about our circumstances throughout life, "all the while believing that we are surrendered to the will of God."

In today's Bible reading, we see Peter as he watched the betrayal of his beloved Master. Acting impulsively, he sliced off the ear of the servant of the high priest (Lk. 22:50; Jn. 18:10-11). But Jesus rebuked Peter's attempt to protect Him, saying, "Permit even this" (v.51). Then He replaced the ear with a healing touch.

In the lives of us all, there will be problems that refuse to go away. But what God permits, He also uses—redemptively. The question is, will we permit what God permits? We too often pray, "Lord, get me out of this mess." But the Lord may be saying, "Let Me into this mess. Permit Me to change you rather than your circumstances." That's the greatest miracle of all.  — Joanie Yoder