The NOTs of Life

We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:8,9 (New King James Version)

I cannot explain how the words of the Apostle Paul become our experience in the midst of what we feel is going to do us in. My mind cannot wrap itself around the full concept of peace in the midst of storms, strength in weakness, and peace that passes all understanding. The “nots” of this passage are amazing! Not in despair. Not forsaken. Not destroyed. These are only possible statements by the grace of God!

Trials and difficulties are not fun, enjoyable, or desired by any of us. As I stood in the kitchen of a friend’s home last night and listened to the hard-pressing, perplexing, and striking down circumstances she and her husband are experiencing I was over whelmed by her present furnace of affliction. We spoke of God’s faithfulness and presence. We prayed and thanked Him for what would come of all of this. It was truly a moment of looking to His father’s heart instead of man’s provision and wisdom. There was no where else to take her but to the throne of grace. I trust that while her heart was heavy, her spirit was raised and poised for flight!

Someone once said, “When we come to the edge of the light we know, and are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown, of this we can be sure…either God will provide something solid to stand on or …we will be taught to fly.” I praise God for the Solid Rock called Jesus that each of us do stand on. And I praise Him for the way we will be taught to fly!

The flight comes as we allow the circumstances that are the most painful to drive us right into close intimacy with Jesus Christ. To know that when all human sources and resources fail to carry us, He becomes our refuge and strong tower. It is when we allow Him to enter into such a place with us that we are bathed in the comfort of words and promises that were penned by Paul but proclaimed by God.

Whether it is for my friend or myself, I am able to begin thanking God for all that He will do that neither of us can even see or fathom at this time. It is then that we can go from distress to anticipation of all that God has in mind and the ability to carry out! How He longs for us to realize how faithful, merciful, and available He is. Those things are best seen and experienced when we are forced out of comfort zones and security blankets into the abiding presence of Almighty God. The tears that flow actually water the seeds of faith and hope that He sows within us.

Father, I have no where else to lead hurting individuals than to Your throne room. I have no one else to entrust them to than You. Because of that I know it will be well with them. It will be well. Amen.