Lord, I Want My Life Back!!!
Never saw this coming
School shootings. Terrorist attacks. And now this coronavirus. Lord have mercy!
Schools are closed, church is live-streamed and vacations are cancelled. Even if you’re confident that danger is far from you, personal change, challenges and crisis happen everyday. I’m not talking about inconveniences like toilet paper shortages or a long line at the post office. I’m talking about the shocking, heartbreaking, disturbing bombshells.
- The marriage is over.
- The job ends.
- The car’s wrecked.
- The money’s gone.
- The diagnoses is pronounced
…and your life is irrevocably changed or altered in a way you didn’t expect or deserve.
Just say NO!
When it happens, there are two immediate and visceral reactions.
The first is NO!
You don’t like it, you don’t want it, and you don’t agree with it.
Just NO!
When NO doesn’t turn into YES no matter how much you cry, beg, plead or pray, the next reaction is often WHY? Why me? Why now? Why ever?
It seems fair to ask why. But do you really want to know why or do you just long for the lost to be found, the broken to be fixed, for the stolen to be returned. Really … you just want your life back! Am I right?
Unfortunate and opportunity
You can look at this time as unfortunate and as an opportunity. No one asks for the pain, suffering, hurt or destruction life brings. So, definitely acknowledge the feelings misfortune brings.
Then review the opportunity for second chances and reconciliations. Reconnect with your family. Pray fervently and, if necessary repentantly, to God. Evaluate what’s really important and and count your blessings.
There is hope in the midst of your hard circumstances … whether those circumstances were self-induced or have been thrust upon you.
God’s Promises
Today, I want to remind you of God’s promises.
- He loves you. (John 3:16)
- He forgives you. (1John 1:9)
- He is with you. (Psalm 46:10)
- He is trustworthy. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
- He has a plan. (Jeremiah 29:11)
- He will strengthen you. (Isaiah 41:10)
- He can redeem this. (Ephesians 1:7)
As you persevere through quarantines, trials and challenges, know that even though you can’t control or change the calamities, God can and does and will.
Make your own list of God’s promises today. It’s a valuable reminder of God’s goodness and greatness. And please put your favorite one in the comments below.
Scripture for today: My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. Psalm 119:50 NIV
Prayer: God, remind me that you still sit on your throne and I am always under your watchful eye. Though there are times it doesn’t feel safe, remind me I am yours and you will always care for me. I ask that this time is restful and not stressful. That we take time to reflect and cast vision and play. For us to take time to complete what’s been lingering and have extra time with you, Jesus. I’m praying God squashes not just the virus, but the fear and isolation it is causing. Praying for protection from exposure for you and yours. Praying for reserves to last and grow. In Jesus Name, amen.
I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me. Philippians 4:13 my go to verse thank you so much for your message God Bless You
I’m telling myself that verse more often these days. Thanks for posting it, Shelly
Thank you for reminding us of ALL God’s promises in those verses. I’m going to print that section and put it in my Bible for daily reference and praying and thanking Him for His promises. Love your weekly blogs. They are such an inspiration. Yes HE is still in control.
Thank you
What a good idea!
Matthew 6:26
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Excellent verse to remind us of how much God values us.
Thanks Carol
Yes the verses are very comforting and encouragement. Thank you
Thank you Robyn ??
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus, his son, purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
God’s blessings to you and yours,
Lorie
Hi Lorie,
Love that verse. I miss the fellowship with one another, but so grateful for HIM!
All of psalm 23 /I shall no be in want, he restores my soul , he will never forsake my, my cup overflows and I shall dwell in the house of the lord forever! Praise and thanksgiving to my God! Amen
One of my favorites, too, Liz
The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; the God of my strength in whom I will trust. 2 Samuel 22:2-3 NKJV
Such a good verse. Thanks for posting, Mary Jo.
Thank you so much for your words; it’s hard to not have our dear friends around us to hold onto physically, but it I am so thankful for technology right now!
Of course, all of Psalm 91 has brought me much comfort – and Luke 10:19 has helped me feel better as I walk out in prayer for all of us:
Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Yes and amen, Sheryl. Carry on Mighty woman of God!
I’ve been asking the Lord to sweep away this virus. To put His hand on it and snuff it out.