God is enough in times of loss.
Loss comes in so many sizes, shapes, and colors. My Dad’s death was a loss that left a hole in many lives–mine included. But loss also comes in other forms: job changes, empty nests, even the back-to-school adjustment each Aug/Sept. With every change, there is a leaving behind (loss) of the old and an embracing of the new. How do we accept the new “normal”?
“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
God is enough in times of fear.
I’m staying with my mom in Indiana this week to help with a few administrative details after Dad’s death. My husband is back home (in Washington State) and called me on Wednesday evening, telling me he was quite ill. His fever had been raging all day (without responding to Tylenol or Ibuprofen), and his pulse was 100+ resting. He said he left the front door unlocked just in case he needed to call 911. This statement was completely out of character for my husband, and real FEAR shot through me like a fiery arrow. Our daughter and son-in-love, who lived 5 minutes away, were out of town, as were our dear friends. Who could I call on to help my husband when I couldn’t be there?
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 (NIV)
(BTW, my husband is on the mend now. He was able to get his fever under control and called me later the same night to let me know he was feeling better. Prayers answered!) 😉
God is enough in any circumstance.
My life is typically very predictable. I spend a lot of time at home in front of my computer, looming deadlines my primary stressors. But during the past two weeks, I have needed the Lord in very unique and urgent circumstances. I’ve asked for wisdom when talking to family members about eternal truths. I’ve needed business savvy when giving my mom advice on financial decisions. Balancing physical stamina with deliberate rest has been a daily challenge to insure my chronic health issues don’t flare into something ugly. In every circumstance, I can testify to my God’s faithfulness and His sufficiency. He has truly been enough when I’ve needed Him most.
“And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 (NIV)
Is Your God Enough?
At every crisis point, I’ve had a choice to make. Will I give myself over to panic, confusion, and despair? Or will I talk to Jesus, asking Him to be my Counselor, Beloved, and Prince of Peace? Each Christ-follower has the same choice. Trusting Him is not EASY, but it’s SIMPLE. The more time we spend with Him, the deeper our relationship grows, and the more quickly His Spirit ministers peace, hope, and wisdom to our spirits. My heartfelt suggestion to anyone who needs God to be enough is this:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” Philippians 4:6-8 (NIV)
Today’s Question:
- Is there a circumstance in your life that you’ve experienced God as “enough”?
