Letting Go and Trusting God
Yesterday, May 29th, would have been my younger brother’s 51st birthday. He died September 12th, 2020, at the age of 49. There are so many memories and good things to remember, and I miss him so much! Our parents, his wife, and their children, and all who knew him mourn him. He brought such light and joy to our lives. This is also the time that we remember those who have served our country and paid for our freedom with their lives. All of this is stirring up deep things within me, and I am seeking to find comfort and strength in the midst of grief and sadness.
I stumbled upon some notes that I made from a talk by Steven Furtick, and I thought I could share them with you. The question he is asking is, “Will you partner with God and what He is doing even if it is not what you would prefer?” Sometimes when I am hurting and I do not understand why tragedy strikes, I have to fight the urge to pull away from God in anger or to look for earthly things to comfort me. I have done this, and I have learned that my true solace comes from God alone.
God, You’re such a safe and powerful place to find refuge! You’re a proven help in time of trouble- more than enough and always available whenever I need You.
Psalm 46:1 The Passion Translation
I heard a quote from Mike Tyson when he was asked about Evander Holyfield’s plans to defeat him, “Everyone has a plan until you get punched in the mouth.” Life is often like that. We all have our plans until life comes along and punches us in the face. Even our greatest of plans can be derailed by unexpected circumstances. The only thing that remains unchangeable are God’s plans and His love which has no end.
Where are you in your life right now? Are you making plans, recovering from being knocked down, or taking a victory lap? I know for me; I feel like it is half-time and in many ways the enemy has been hitting me hard. It is time to draw away, and listen to my Creator, my loving faithful coach to help me take stock and hear where He is directing me next. Steven Furtick said, “The enemy uses the heaviest artillery on those who have the greatest purpose.” As children of the Most High God, we all have a plan and a purpose.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 NLT
I have seen in myself, my family, and the people I work with new things coming to life in the midst of tragedy and loss. The lesson may be, learning to let go of our own plans and listening and trusting in God to direct us where we are. What is God teaching you to appreciate in the season you are in right now? For me it is time to reset my expectations and learn to recognize the blessings where I am. If I loosen my grip on what I think I want and release what I could never control, I will be able to lift a lot more, and in my weaknesses, God will be my strength. No matter what, God is with us. He will never leave us, and His love will never fail. That is something to praise!
May the God, who puts all things together, makes all things whole,
Who made a lasting mark through the sacrifice Jesus, the sacrifice of blood that sealed the eternal covenant,
Who led Jesus, our Great Shepherd, up and alive from the dead,
Now put you together, provide you with everything you need to please Him,
Make us into what gives Him most pleasure, by means of the sacrifice of Jesus, the Messiah.
All glory to Jesus forever and always!
Oh, yes, yes, yes.
Hebrews 13:20-21 The Message
God bless you,
Betsy O’Callaghan