Have you ever used a GPS in your car on a long trip? At first it’s a little unnerving as the voice of an unseen individual starts telling you what lane to merge into, where to turn, and how far you need to go. But as you venture into unfamiliar territory, locked in traffic on an unknown road, that voice soon becomes very comforting. You don’t have to worry about an unexpected road sign. No need to fret over a sudden lane change. The voice of “one who knows” is guiding you.
The road of life is also filled with unknown surprises and difficult turns. And sometimes the path leaves us feeling confused and distraught. There is perhaps no better example than when we experience a painful loss. A loved one is taken unexpectedly. A relationship breaks, leaving us alone and afraid. A promising career is derailed by a sudden layoff. In those times, it’s nice to hear the voice of One who has promised to be with us every step of the way. Listen to the promise the Lord gave Isaiah in 41:10...
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.Fear is a natural reaction when loss suddenly visits us. These kinds of crises plunge us into an ocean of uncertainty, turmoil, or grief. But we need not face these challenges alone. God has assured us that when we seek Him, He will empower us with strength, stamina, and—best of all—His presence.
Perhaps you’re facing a difficult time of loss today. If not, it’s likely you’ll experience such a crisis in the future. That’s the nature of life. Whatever the case, you need not walk through that valley alone. Seek out the support of fellow believers. And give your burden to the Lord. He has promised to be your provider, your comfort, and your strength. Then rest in the promise that wherever you go, God will be with you.
What is the most painful loss you’ve ever experienced? How did you cope with that loss?
In what ways can knowing that God is near help you through a difficult loss?
The most painful loss I experienced was my son, Sam's death. It has only by the grace of God that I am able to move forward. Knowing that God is near gives me the peace and comfort that I need when I am all alone. On the days that it seems too hard to move on, I can feel His presence and it calms me to be able to face another day. May God bless you as you seek His help with your time of loss.
ReplyDeleteSylvia, YOUR words...Your strength and YOUR faith bring me much comfort. It was my son's death that brought me to Living Word Fellowship. I acknowledge that it was part of God's plan to help me deal with my loss. But I felt like even though I was being given the tools, I didn't know how to begin using them. I sincerely needed encouragement and God used YOU to provide that. I know that my journey towards healing isn't going to be easy and it's not going to happen overnight, but I'm ready to begin. Thank you Sylvia...and more importantly, THANK YOU GOD!! There truly is a light at the end of the tunnel!
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