“I know that You can do everything and that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You.”
Job 42:2
Have you ever gotten news that you’re literally unable to comprehend? You’re hearing words, but nothing’s processing because it’s beyond anything you could fathom. The fog eventually clears, and you realize everything is different. Everything.
With COVID-19, we are currently in the midst of this type of situation—as a society. New uncertainties, fears, and “what ifs” are being unveiled on a daily basis.
Like pulling a loose thread on a knitted sweater, life as we know it is beginning to unravel. In these times, what is our response to God?
I think of Job. Right from the start, this book is a hard-hitting drama. In a matter of minutes, Job finds out he lost his property, his animals, his servants—and all 10 of his children. His immediate response? “The Lord gave, and Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” He. Praises. God.
And, despite his not-so-helpful friends and a conversation with God Himself, Job never came to an understanding of why his life was shattered. God had His reasons, and He is Sovereign over everything. Ultimately, that was good enough for Job.
When our lives are unraveling—with uncertainty, pain, loss, heartache—do we praise God in the midst of it all, knowing He is in control? I think a follow-up question is needed: Do we praise the Lord when things go well—a promotion, a good medical report, a successful child. Of course! We shout, “Praise God!” and give Him all the glory. It “all works for our good,” right?
Sisters, it does all work for good…even the suffering. Sometimes we see the purpose not long after we come through the other side. Often, though, things might not “make sense” until months or years later. And, as with Job, there will be times we won’t know God’s reasons this side of heaven. But, regardless of whether our life is being knit together perfectly so we see a beautiful pattern, or if threads are unraveling and all we see is the mess, God is in control. His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).
So, let’s lift a shout of praise for His sovereignty—whether through tears of joy or of sorrow. Let’s bless His name through it all, even as our circumstances unravel. And know this, others are watching—especially today amid the panic and chaos…and our response may just keep someone else from coming unraveled themselves.
Let’s pray together, shall we? “Lord, thank You for being in control of my life. All the time. I trust You—even through crisis, difficulty, defeat, and despair. Blessed be Your name.”
encouraged by grace 