Twenty years ago I had neck surgery. This was my first major surgery and I was a bit anxious, to say the least. I didn’t know what to expect and fear crept into my thinking. The only way that I was able to get through this process was to cling to the hope that my pain would go away. After the successful surgery, the pain was gone and then I was able to relax and give God thanksgiving.
A few days after the surgery I went back to the doctor for a follow-up appointment. As we were entering his office a young family approached. As I held the door open for them, I noticed the two to three year old girl in the stroller. She had a neck brace on just like mine. She also had the cutest smile on her face. The family seemed relaxed and at peace. I thought about all this family, and especially the little girl, had gone through. Yet they didn’t seem overly concerned or worried about their circumstances. Then I realized that my circumstances were minimally problematic compared to theirs. I had much to be grateful for and it was finally true to me that my God had dealt favorably with me.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 gives us advice for the times of trouble that we will inevitably face; “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” When we encounter difficulties, we tend to focus on the problem. By doing that, we forget about the Problem Solver. Instead, we should remember to pray and ask God to oversee and work through our trouble. Then we will be able to thank Him for His work on our behalf. And finally, we will be able to rejoice in His sovereign power at work for us.
Reluctant Retiree 