December started with the usual race to put up decorations that inspire our Christmas spirit. But this year, instead of a mounting increase in Christmas cheer, each day brought a bombshell of bad news: a funeral, a couple’s relationship blow-up, two elderly relatives hospitalized, a friend diagnosed with cancer, and another friend’s house auctioned.
I prayed for them all and tried to help where I could. But this multitude of misery, on top of the pressure of Christmas duties, shook me up and overwhelmed me. By the second week, even little everyday mishaps had me fighting back tears.
In an attempt to regain my anchor, I thought of my Bible verse, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Romans 8:28).
But God, all I see is tragedy. It doesn’t seem like you are working here.
“My father is always working” (John 5:17 NLT) echoed in my head.
Okay, I guess I’ll have to believe, and trust you to work.
Instead of dwelling on the problems, I decided to watch expectantly to see what God would do in the lives of these hurting Christians. When I looked at their situations this way, I noticed the widow at the funeral glowed with joy and peace—believing her husband was in a better place and grateful for their years together. My friends with the marriage problems continued looking to God for help, and made some necessary changes. My relatives made it through their hospital stay—seems like God still had plans for them here. My friend’s tumor ended up being small and treatable, and my other friend’s faith in God’s provision inspired me.
I want life to go smoothly. But when it doesn’t, instead of being discouraged, I’m learning to watch for God’s involvement. All these situations turned out better than I first feared, and in each one I saw the touch of God’s hand.
The Never Ending Gifts 