Excuse Me, God? There's Been a Drastic Mistake...

As much as most of us would like to think we’re in control of our lives, at some point it becomes dreadfully apparent that any semblance of control we’re clinging to is a flimsy façade at best. Life just isn’t as rosy as we thought it would be, even for those of us who call ourselves believers.

Once we recover from this initial shock, we begin to grasp that circumstances will sometimes occur that we didn’t expect, didn’t ask for and frankly, that we don't like. God’s word tells us “to everything there is a season” (see Ecclesiastes 3:1). I’m sorry to tell you this will include seasons of suffering. No one is immune to the barrage of hardships and hurts life frequently heaves our way. Suffering is an equal opportunity affliction.

When God allows suffering into our lives, it’s tempting to think He has made a drastic mistake. “Excuse me, Lord? I’m hanging on to this gravely ledge by two feeble fingers…” Our hopes, dreams and plans zoom right over the edge of that unforgiving cliff. We’re helpless to do anything. Or so it seems.

When our lives come crashing down around us, we are essentially left with two choices. We can either fight the purposes of God—and I believe we often do this without realizing it—or we can surrender to the season that the Lord Himself has allowed to come our way.

This summer I’ll be sharing some insight into the “Why’s?” of suffering. I believe that when we have at least a measure of understanding into the purposes and plans of God in our lives, we will be less likely to fight them, and more able to clearly recognize God is at work within us and around us—for our good. (See Romans 8:28)

Then, even when things don’t make sense to us, we will be more likely to surrender ourselves completely into the Potter’s hands. And less likely to jump off that cliff.

This week's question: Have you endured what seems like a drastic mistake?

Next week: This isn't what I signed up for...I quit!