Over the past couple of years, I have suffered several devastating losses. Both of my beloved parents and 2 fur-kids all passing away in quick succession. As well as an only sibling who chose estrangement over mutual forgiveness and reconciliation. And a long-time friend who chose a “different path” over love and acceptance. Each blow broke my heart and left festering sores and ugly bruises. Each loss left me wondering, what I had done to cause these things to happen. At times, I questioned what I had done for God to punish me in this way?
God’s Timing
One morning while praying, I remembered Jesus’ response to the Pharisees when they questioned who in the blind man’s family sinned for him to be punished by his blindness. His response is recorded by John, “‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned,‘ said Jesus, ‘but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.’” ~John 9:3 NIV
Therefore when we remember Jesus’ answer and examine His meaning, it becomes clear.
God teaches us lessons every single day and in every circumstance we live through. If we’re not carefully paying attention, we’re likely to miss them. Resulting in falling prey to misinterpretation and the enemy’s lies. The author of Proverbs 16:20 NIV wrote, “Pay attention to what you are taught, and you will be successful; trust in the Lord and you will be happy.”
Carrying Burdens
Naturally, it’s incredibly difficult to carry the burdens of loss, anger, sorrow, and all else that floods through our emotions in hard times. We are not expected or intended to bear those burdens ourselves. Above all, there will always be a cost to living out Jesus’ command to love one another. Not everyone will love us back. People and pets will become sick and die, friends will choose to sever ties without explanation. Furthermore, we need to keep our hearts open letting God hold them in His hands. We must always remember that God’s plans for us are His to unfold in His timing. Things happen for us to see Him at work.
God’s Lessons
Over time, the lessons God meant for me through these difficult events have become clear. That doesn’t diminish the anguish and heartache I suffered. With His help, I’ve come to know His love for me is constant. The sadness and grief for my parents has transformed into a sense of comfort, knowing they’re residing with our Lord. The loss of our fur-kids (1 more just recently) increased our love exponentially, saving the lives of 3 others. The loss of a decades-long friend stays alive through memories of the good times we shared over the years. And the estrangement from my sibling is still God’s work in progress. I find comfort in knowing that whatever the outcome may be, it’s His divine will.
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” ~ Romans 8:28 NIV
I pray that whatever tense and difficult circumstance you may find yourself in today, you’ll turn it over to the Lord. Let Him take your burden and allow Him to show you how He works for your good. It’s never easy to let go of the hardships we think we can handle ourselves. Ultimately when we step out in faith and prayer paying attention, really paying attention, we’ll see how God’s love for us covers it all; His lessons will make us stronger than ever before.
Meet Peggianne
About the writer: Peggianne Wright is a passionate Bible study student, devoted dog mom, wife of 42 years, lover of music, and writer. Peggianne’s online, faith-based pet parent community called Paws To Pray www.pawstopray.ca provides a source of inspiration, encouragement, and entertainment each and every day. Whether you’re a pet parent looking for tips and ideas on raising your fur-kids or a friend in faith, longing for some spiritual uplifting, PtP is a gentle blend of both. You can follow her on www.Facebook.com/PawsToPray/ and on IG @Sister_In_Prayer.
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