I once heard a message discussing how potentially disappointed the wise men felt when baby Jesus was found in a ragged stable. (Matthew 2:1-12) The Messiah can be found next to the horses and sheep? Odd if you think about it.
It really does make you think, though. How many times do we come across a less-than-ideal situation? A messy, broken, and confusing situation. When all we see is a sad, dirty little “stable,” God can be found in the middle.
It’s also crucial to remember that the less than ideal, or the “stable” if you will, has an important place in the story. God can and will use it for good. ‘And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God are called according to his purpose for them.’ (Romans 8:28)
So, whenever life throws a messy situation at you (and it will), remember to search for God instead of focusing on the “stable” in front of you. There is so much of God’s goodness to be found.