Look back at any time in which you lost. How did you feel? Did you feel upset or disappointed? At least on one time, you probably did. However, even if you feel disappointed, you can be joyful. I've lost several times in many ways (not necessarily a competition), and honestly, yes, I often felt upset or disappointed because I didn't get my way. However, there are times in which I need to show joy for the situations. Simply put, you won't always get your way, but you can still look for ways to be glad.
Recently, I was running for class vice president for next year at my school. Did I lose? No, I did not lose. I did not win the election, but I still won. How could I win when I did not get elected? I won an amazing experience: learning how to campaign and cope with not being elected. I enjoyed creating posters and writing and creating my speech. After some thought, I can say this was all worth it to me. In addition to this, I “won” the opportunity to write this blog post. If I had won the election for class vice president, I would not have been prompted by God to write this.
Sometimes God will prevent one from winning something so that he can win in other, more numerous ways. I believe that this is what God was doing in my life. When I was running, I had the feeling that I was not going to win the election, and I told my friend that even if I did not get elected, it would be a good experience, and I believe that God gave me an amazing time of my life.
When we lose, let us remember to be joyful. Having joy, even when you lose, will cause you to be happy for the person who won (in a healthy competition). As I heard the results of the election, I needed to remember to be joyful and be happy for my friend. Even though I did not achieve my goal of winning the election, I can remember that God still loves me and still has a plan for my life. Now I say this to you: Never forget who you are in Christ and all that He has given you. Remember, He loves you, and He will always give you what it takes to become victorious in every circumstance. However, victory will not always come in the way that you expect. Rejoicing will help you to see how you were victorious.
“Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation.” – Psalm 35:9
In conclusion, I encourage you to praise the Lord always, even when you don’t get what you want. Praise Him and see how joy fills your life. As you do this, I encourage you to look for and focus on ways in which you won rather than set your mind on what you lost. No matter what happens and no matter what we do, let it all be for the glory of the Lord.
Lastly, congratulations to my wonderful and positive friend Bella, the 2018-2019 sophomore class vice president!
PARA LA GLORIA DEL SEÑOR,
Jeremiah Yonemura
