In this time of uncertainty, isolation, and fear, there is one thing that is unchanging – One on whom we can count to rescue us and to provide for us. Those of us who know the Lord, who study His word and trust in His promises, have a different perspective than the rest of the world. We can say, even if the world ends tomorrow, our economy collapses, our health fails, (fill in the blank _____), we, who believe, know this world is not our home. We have a heavenly home where we will live forever with our loving Father because of His Son, Jesus Christ.
I am reminded of the three youths in Babylon who were facing the fiery furnace unless they forsook their God and bowed down to Nebuchadnezzar’s idol.
“If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, your Majesty. But even if He doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, your Majesty that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.” (Check out the rest of the story in Daniel 3).
We do not know what our future holds, but we know the One who holds our future. One of the hardest things to do during this time is to let go of our own expectations and to trust God to work out the details of our lives. I am trying to practice what our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ said in the garden before His crucifixion, “not My will, but Yours, be done.” Luke 22:42b
Last Friday my middle daughter, Kellie, got married. It was not how we had planned with all of the restrictions and shut downs. The wedding changed from a big celebration to a small intimate backyard ceremony. A friend reminded me, “None of this was a surprise for God.” We were praying that there would be no rain, and it drizzled and stormed throughout, yet in all the details God proved Himself faithful. The day before, we found a great deal on a tent. A friend of the groom’s family gave us use of their beautiful house and gorgeous backyard on a lake. An uncle performed the ceremony. We saw God’s hand taking care of so many things, and it was amazing! Not our will, or our plans, even better, sweeter, and beyond what we would ever think, dream or imagine. “Now to Him Who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20
It is easier to see God working when we are surrounded by loved ones and celebrating a momentous occasion. It is harder when we are alone and facing disappointments, but God is the same no matter the circumstances we are in or our feelings about them.
God’s love never changes, and nothing can ever separate us from His love. Our “even ifs” don’t matter in the face of the steadfastness of our Heavenly Father. He promises to always be with us, to take care of us and to deliver us from, or through, the fire into His everlasting arms.
God bless you my brothers and sisters in Christ. Be strong in the Lord, and trust Him to deliver you.
Betsy O’Callaghan