We can never really expect a smooth ride in this life. We get hit with setbacks in every season, whether they're big or small. Sometimes it's a bummer and other times it's a total heartbreak, but remember that a setback is different than a fallback.
This summer I faced a few setbacks and last week I was nailed with another one, a massive one. There's always two ways to look at every situation, and we will never be able to fully look at our setbacks in the way that Jesus does. He knows His plans, we don't. He knows that something better is right around the corner, and of course we don't. We jump to conclusions, question His goodness, and become angry with His decision to allow these things to slam us. It hurts, it's scary, and it's difficult to say the least. If you're walking in this season along side of me, I want you to hear this truth.
We don't really have this whole life thing planned out. We think we do, but our sense of control is totally false. We build bridges only to have them burnt down, we try to open doors only to find out that they are locked. But this is a good thing. Indeed, it's a very good thing. If we are not in control, and God really is, can't we rest assured that we are in good hands? Doesn't that mean that when things fail, it's because God has something better in mind? A friend recently sent me this quote, and I loved every ounce of it:
""God never withholds from His child that which His love and wisdom call good. God's refusals are always merciful -- "severe mercies" at times but mercies all the same. God never denies us our hearts desire except to give us something better."
--Elisabeth Elliot
These words are full of so much truth. When our dreams are crushed, we can lift our eyes to our Father and ask Him, "Okay, what's next?"
Believe me, through prayer and patience, He will open the correct doors and show you what's best for you. It is a daily process of learning to trust Him, and understanding that He is working as you wait. Somedays you feel like a failure, because you're not making progress in the way that you wanted, but what about the progress that God wants? Can't that be obtained no matter where you are?
God is bigger than the walls you're putting up right now. He's stronger than the pain you're walking through and He's closer to you than your very breath, through all of it.
Wherever you are right now, no matter the situation, keep your eyes fixed on the One who holds your future. When you feel as though you're being denied something good, lean into that childlike faith. Remember that there are better things in store for you, and never stop pursuing what the Lord has placed on your heart.
The journey will look different than what we expect, but that is because we cannot comprehend the incredible life that God has for us.
