It’s likely most everyone reading this has dealt with a circumstance in their life where emotions and fear cause struggles that leave a person feeling like they are stuck in a shoulder deep snowdrift and totally unable to make any forward progress.
When I was asked how I dealt with struggle, I had to really think about it. First and foremost in any situation, I’d like to say I immediately call out to God; and in some sense I do. But my initial instinct is “What can I do –or need to do --about this right now? I’ve got to go to the hospital. I’ve got to make sure this or that is done. Do you see the pattern? “I’ve, I’ve, I’ve.”
It’s not about me! It’s about God’s plan. I need to stop and remember that I am not alone in my suffering, no matter what kind it is! Medical issues belong to everyone in the family regardless of who is specifically ill! The emotional side of it also takes its toll! The family ultimately begins a journey to places they’ve possibly never gone before and it can be hard! To paraphrase someone else’s thought; “The devil keeps knocking at my door and I keep opening it, rather than rebuking him in Jesus’ name!” I’m working on that!
I also need to remember that I need not struggle alone! I like the expression “Do not fear, God is always near!” It’s wonderful to have human words and physical embraces that are encouraging and supportive even when circumstances cause a melt down! Not only is our biological family important, but so is a church family that embraces the family with all the love and aid a family could imagine.
This is how it’s supposed to be! We are to be a ‘community;’ a ‘family’ who holds up every other member within our congregation, as well as, Believers who need us even when we hardly know them at all –or in some cases don’t know them at all. This doesn’t apply only to a medical issue, but to other types of struggles families and individuals find themselves. Sometimes it happens because of choices, other times, it has nothing to do with anything anyone did. It’s life! It’s ‘stuff’ that happens beyond our control.
During dark times, we all suffer from time time, we can be reminded of Mary and Joseph who had plans of an engagement, and marriage and probably dreams of their married life. But God had other plans. They were obedient and God blessed them. God’s timing was perfect; he gave us the perfect gift for his perfect purpose.
As Christmas closes in, I encourage you to embrace those around you who are struggling with all kinds of different circumstances. Each of us has a story. Embracing each other is a gift that keeps on giving and giving.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
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