By Gina Caswell Kelly
Lots of people have the idea that following Christ means our lives will be without sorrow or suffering. As Christians, we know that is simply not true. Serving God in no way disqualifies us from the trials of this life. I think you can look at any Christian’s life and see that we have just as many problems as others have.
This week, a tragic accident happened. A family I dearly love has had their lives changed forever because of the actions of another. My heart broke as I heard the news. These people are all Christians and serve God faithfully. So why? Why would He allow such a terrible accident to happen to them? The truth is, we will never actually have the answers to any of the “why” questions of this life. We will never have any idea why a loving Father would allow such tragedy into the lives of His children He claims to love so much. So, again, why did it happen?
My daddy used to say that while God certainly has the ability to stop things from happening, He set the world in motion and He gave everyone free choice. He wants everyone to choose Him and everything to go great in our lives, but that is not always what happens. The real issue is how do we react when things are so much less than what we wanted them to be? How do we react when it seems as though God is not hearing our prayers? When He does not answer in the way that seems best to us?
We have a couple of choices. We can let those things define us and change us and make us bitter. Or we can keep our eyes wide open as we travel the new path that is before us, and allow God to show us His blessings in the middle of the pain and the struggle. We can find a way to allow Him to bring us the comfort that seems to be out of reach in the current situation. We can allow Him to use His children to bring us words of encouragement. We can look at the challenge that is before as an opportunity, and open each new door with anticipation of what God has planned and how He is going to use this new path on which we find ourselves.
I know these words are very easy to say, and much, much harder to put into practice. But I know that we serve a God of love. A God of grace and mercy. A God of miracles. I also know that while hearts are still so tender, all these words may bring no peace. Give it to the Father and give it time. He has a great plan. He knew this day was coming. Nothing about your situation is a surprise to Him. His heart breaks right along side yours. He does not get any pleasure from our suffering. He wants to hold you close. He wants to wipe your tears.
As you face whatever challenges or opportunities you might find in your pathway, look with God’s eyes and see how God can use this and use you through the pain. He said He would never leave us or forsake us. Take Him at His word. It will make a difference.
