When the Unexpected Happens

Dear Kindred Spirits in Christ,

I think each of us have experienced situations that seemingly arrive out of nowhere. We didn't see them coming and were blindsided in any number of ways. Perhaps it was the loss of a job, a health condition, a marriage that disintegrated or a friendship. Perhaps it was sudden death and a broken heart...

As Christians, we know from the Word itself, and from the patterns in our lives, that we are not spared trials and tribulations in this world. Yet we are assured that God will provide a way out, or through or maybe around the very thing that has tried our faith and made us question our futures.

John 16:33 states: I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world, you face persecution, but take courage, I have conquered the world.

Yes, we have victory in Christ, but it doesn't always feel victorious, at least in the moment. There are setbacks, issues beyond our control, and sometimes, it gets ugly and seems hopeless. Did we bring this on ourselves, unknowingly? Do we deserve a favored resolution? This is where the grace of God enters, as soon as we turn it over to Him.

Psalm 118:5 and 29 say: Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me in a broad place...Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. For His mercy endures forever.

I'm focusing my thoughts on these scriptures tonight, as I trust that my own unexpected events will continue to be graciously resolved by our Father. I pray that you will do the same, as we remember together that faith is not knowing what the future holds, but knowing Who holds the future.

Love Always,

Marti