How many times can you get punched in the gut or at least feel like it? Looking at the definition of gut-wrenching, here are some of the synonyms I read: upsetting, saddening, heartbreaking, tragic, and distressful. Most of us can relate to the adjectives above. So, when the things that had seemed certain in life crumble, how do you keep on keeping on? These questions are at the forefront of my mind right now as I see people and familiarity blow apart at the seams. Relationships that have spanned decades are dissolving and questions and confusion are threatening to overtake any kind of normalcy that has been known.
In any traumatic event, the only answer we can rest on is Jesus. God’s word, His inerrancy, His promises, His immutability, and His plan remain our firm foundation. I feel as if I am on a roller coaster and cannot get off. The upheaval is real, the reality is scary, however, the strong arm that is holding me is secure – I will not fall, I will make it to the end of this crazy ride. I may be a bit unsteady at the end, but God will be waiting with outstretched hands. He is faithful (Hebrews 10:23).
So, how will I survive in one piece? The immediate answer after the obvious one above, is my focus. Because of God’s mercy and grace in my life, I have the power to choose. Will I focus on my own sorrow, panic, and loss, or will I determine to encourage others who are hurting? As in anything else in this world, it is not about me! Rather, it is about my purpose to glorify God through serving others. This does not mean I pretend all is well – circumstances are not good, and I say that emphatically. It does mean that God is the one directing His people to carry out His plan and He will prevail. With my soul, all is well, nothing has changed, God remains the same. Do we have concerns? Absolutely.
But will we allow our concerns to stifle our mission? I hope not. When life’s circumstances threaten to overtake your thoughts, there is a choice to make – either you will become paralyzed and anxious about each small detail of trouble, or you will be motivated to focus on Truth. Most believers are familiar with the passage in Philippians 4:6-8. It follows Paul’s exhortation to those in the church to live in harmony in the Lord, to be of the same mind. Churches had problems then also. Sometimes, we forget that the ‘church’ is made of people who are inherently sinful. Even in our desire to genuinely follow God, we err in our evaluation of a circumstance, in our perception of a problem, and in our implementation of God’s truths. This was true then, and it is true today.
The ‘church’ is not a building; it is not the pastors or elders; it is people who are striving to bring glory and honor to God, encouraging one another, discipling one another. The church is people who follow God. Let us remember who we follow. My confidence in men and institutions may be shaken, but my confidence in God is secure. Our faith and trust are placed in His power, and His love, and His plan does not waver. Christ is sovereign over all things (Ephesians 1:21) and all human institutions. He will cause all things to work together for good to those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
Back to Philippians 4:6-8, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is o good repute if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.”
How many times can you get punched in the gut or at least feel like it? More than we need to know, the Bible says man is born for trouble (Job 5:7). I am reminded to praise God for the ‘quiet’ times more than I do; to appreciate more fully those times without turmoil.
When the things that seemed certain in your life blow apart, how will you keep on keeping on? Focus on Jesus. It is His strength which upholds us (Isaiah 41:10).
How will you survive in one piece? You may become worn and tattered here on earth, but you have all you need in Him now and will one day be complete in your Savior’s presence (Colossians 2:10).
How will you remain focused on the mission God has given you?
Be anxious for nothing.
Pray with a thankful heart, let God know your concerns.
Surround yourself with His peace.
Keep centered on His blessings.
Focus Heavenward, eyes forward to the great promise of our Savior, the gift of eternal life in heaven where tears will be wiped away (Revelation 21:4).
