Losing My Grip

Naked (without possessions) came I [into this world] from my mother’s womb, and naked (without possessions) shall I depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed (praised and magnified in worship) be the name of the Lord! Job 1:21 (Amplified Bible)

I take loss hard. The more significant something or someone is in my life the harder it is to experience the departure. Whether it be relationships, seasons of life, health issues, jobs, or experiences each must be viewed as a gift from God subject to change and temporary status. If I mistakenly believe otherwise, I am merely setting myself up for disillusionment and disappointment. But if I see God’s involvement in all things, then I can treasure the moments yet hold them loosely. My ability to do that will increase as I become more aware of God’s nature and heart.

If I stand suspect of Him and think He is cruel and out to ruin my life the losses will appear to be “proof” of that very mindset. But if I see Him as a loving, heavenly Father who knows what is best for me and is intent on molding my life for His glory, then I learn to rest in what He is doing and trust Him during the process. It is His desire that I learn to view life through His grid of truth and with spirit eyes. Living each day cognitive of His presence, person, and involvement in my life. My days are not made up of mere random, pointless events. God is working in profound ways and I can so easily miss the realization of that truth if I shift my focus away from Him.

These thoughts were triggered last night as I reviewed the dynamics of changed or lost friendships over the years. Without the awareness that “the Lord gives and the Lord takes away” I can too easily live in a state of grieving as well as torture myself with the question of “What did I do wrong?” Last night, God interrupted my thoughts with some precious instructions and reminders. He whispered to my spirit, “Pam, don’t limit your thoughts concerning the people and events of your life. You must see My hand and involvement in it all. Most of the people in your life and the relationship you have with them is for a season of time and a divine purpose. I am the One who “lends” you the moments. It is not about their change of heart or yours. It is about My timing and My design. Trust Me. Cling to Me. I am your permanent Source and Companion. Enjoy my gifts to you but don’t refuse to let go of them when I initiate the change. Poise yourself to receive the new things that await. Rest in My love.”

Father, I now see what I have been blind to for so many years. You are constantly aware and constantly working on my behalf. May I hold the things of this life loosely while You hold me tightly. Amen.