Life is by Design and by Choice

We often ask ourselves, why am I going through a dark season? Where are you, Lord?

Darkness is an overwhelming cloud that sneaks up when you least expect it. So how do we fight this overwhelming darkness that engulfs us and leaves us paralyzed with fear?

The Scripture tells us that whenever King David was about to face a battle or fear tried to overpower him, he always withdrew and sought the Lord. David knew that God was faithful; therefore, he had hope in the One who loved him and fought his battles. The One who knew him; forgave his sins and saved him by grace. So, David came to God’s presence, laid all his burdens and fears at His feet, and worshiped the Lord with thanksgiving and a strong desire to know God better. (See Psalm 119)

How do we handle fear in the face of uncertainties? Do we come to Jesus and lay all our fears and concerns at His feet with the knowledge that He has good plans for us and that no matter how grim our current circumstances may be, we can trust that God will cause all things to work together for our good? (See Romans 8:28) 

Friends, I need to be honest with you. Before the pandemic, I would bring my questions and complaints to the Lord whenever anything didn’t go as I expected. “Lord, why? I don’t understand why my family and loved ones must struggle so much …” and the list went on and on.

During the pandemic, I was forced to remain locked up where it was only God and me. My brother, who is also my beloved pastor, used to pray for God to find an isolated island where I could get to know Him more intimately and realize how deeply my Heavenly Father loved me. Well, Covid became that ‘isolated Island.’ 

During this time, I started reading His Word and learning more about who He is and how much He loves me. The more time I spent with the Lord, the more I began to know Him; God is a faithful and wonderful Father who loved me despite my shortcomings and a lousy attitude. He never stopped loving me, even when I messed up. 

Pastor Sharon once told us, “Nothing about your life or mine is random or coincidental. Life is by design (a plan to make something) and by choice.” Who designs? God. Who has the option to accept His plan? You and me. 

In Jeremiah 29:11, God said, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Isn’t that amazing? God, our amazing Father, has good plans for you and me.

Ann L. Knopp wrote in her book, “God gives you the strength and power to walk through each day and not just make it through but to conquer the day with Him fighting the battles for you or with you.” (Pursue Jesus; Obey Jesus; Live for Jesus.)

If you are currently facing some uncertainties or are experiencing a dark season, be encouraged, friend; you are not alone. Jesus, our Savior, is with you. He will never leave you or forsake you. He is faithful, and He will see you through it.

Lord Jesus, thank you for reminding us that nothing we are experiencing is random. You are aware of everything that we are facing. You will lead and carry us through Your Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In Your name, amen!