The 3-Day Principle
This post is one of the most important in our 35th anniversary series of key verses (#5) that lead to transformation and spiritual maturity.
Jeanne (my wife) has developed a mentoring principle that has been a big help to men and women dealing with difficult, immediate, and short term personal or relationship issues. The “3-Day Principle” is directly related to Easter. Between Friday and the cross, and Sunday with an open tomb, miracles occur.
You have just been confronted by a family member or coworker in a very negative manner and with seemingly unjust accusations. A natural tendency, on this “Friday” for you or me, is to make an immediate, emotionally based outburst or decision as our first response when anger, fear or hurt is present. It is human nature to be defensive or take to the offense in this kind of interchange, perhaps expressing words or taking actions to be regretted later. But, what if instead, you decide to wait 3 days?
Between Friday and Sunday, the 3 days from the cross to resurrection, anticipate an encounter with the Lord. Patience, faith and a desire to seek God can lead to a “Sunday” outcome:
- 3 days for God to change circumstances or attitudes
- 3 days to collect new information, analyze your thoughts and let God do His work
- 3 days can allow time to make a measured response or to forgive, or ask forgiveness.
God’s ways are not man’s ways. Three days filled with prayer, seeking advice, and reading the scriptures will bring wisdom and peace. As the disciples were ready to go back to fishing or Emmaus, Mary, the mother of Jesus was there, faithfully praying, expecting a miracle. A miraculous Sunday came.
Jeanne and I believe that God has His answer for every situation. The “3-Day Principle” is one of many tools to allow “Sunday” to happen when darkness turns to light. Enjoy Easter—make its celebration a daily event. Have a nice Sunday.
Key Verse: I waited patiently for God to help me; then he listened and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out from the bog and the mire, and set my feet on a hard, firm path, and steadied me as I walked along. Psalm 40:1-3Living Bible (TLB)
