There are a lot of things that happen in life just because that’s how life is in our world. Some of these things seem crummy and some of them seem fantastic. Almost always, the bad things seem to come out of nowhere, catching us by surprise.
When my husband lost his job about five weeks ago, we were definitely left reeling. This was one big, fat ugly surprise. For the first week I was stressed and pressured. I tried to make sure plans got put in place quickly. At one point, I did the cliche thing because I was frustrated and just couldn’t make sense of it: I asked God if this was a lesson to teach us something.
In response, with a slight smile, a chuckle, and a patient shake of the head as from a wise father to a small child who hasn’t learned to see beyond their own immediate world, a silent voice responded, “I am always teaching.”
You see, maybe there are times and moments given to us by God as an opportunity to learn. However, if I can see each moment rightly, if you can see each moment rightly, we may be able to understand that the blessing is missed in trying to point fingers and look for the supposed grand, cosmic reason for our troubles. Whether this moment or season is good or bad, whether unexpected or diligently worked for, our Father is always teaching, so every moment is a teaching moment that we can be formed by if we’re open to it.
Focus your heart on God and not your situation. He is always good.
“…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:11b-13 NIV