This past summer, at my grandparents' house, my Grandma told me about a trial in her life that took place many years ago. Her mind had been bombarded by the "what ifs" of the situation because there was no promise of healing or a happy ending.
As my Grandma continued telling me the story, she remembered how she wished she had met that suffering with two small, yet significant words.
Even if.
Instead, she focused on the “what ifs” which brought anxiety and fear, and I couldn’t help but think of how often I have done the same thing.
What if a family member dies?
What if my health issue doesn’t heal?
What if I never get married?
What if……….
Even if He Doesn't
MercyMe's song “Even If” is a testament to God's sovereignty in our suffering. Though He doesn’t answer all our prayers, He is still our hope and refuge.
One of the verses goes like this,
"I know You're able and I know You can save through the fire with Your mighty hand, but even if You don't, my hope is You alone"
When we are confused as to why our sorrows are still so great and our pain still so present this is a truth we can cling to. We can have rest because the Lord has complete control over our lives with gentle grace to sustain and care for us even in our darkest and hardest days.
When He Says Yes
In the past few weeks, I have been waiting and interviewing for a new job and have been filled with hope and excitement. However, I also realized the Lord could answer my prayers with a "no," which was stressful and hard.
Yet in this recent season of life He has mercifully gifted and surprised me with more than I ever thought He would provide.
I recently received a call with the job offer and have been rejoicing and praising Him! My heart is overflowing with thankfulness and joy at His clear provision and kindness. His answer has not always been yes, but I thank Him with dear friends and family because it was this time.
It is Well
MercyMe's song ends with the beloved hymn,
"It is well with my soul
It is well
It is well with my soul."
Even if the Lord never allows certain dreams to become realities, or continues to keep us in a fragile and painful place of suffering, if we are in Christ, our hope and labor will never be in vain. In dark seasons of my life when the answer is "wait" He has still proved Himself good and faithful.
So let us take heart, for as the Great Spurgeon said, "God is our portion, Christ our companion, the Spirit our comforter, Earth our lodge, and Heaven is our home."
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