Look Again! Learning to See God in the Midst of the StormSýnishorn

When the Pain is Overwhelming, Look for the Almighty God

There are seasons of our life that feel unbearable. The emotional anguish and pain become overwhelming, and we feel like we have been overtaken by a current that has dragged us into a relentless sea.

In this sea of overwhelm, everything seems dark and bleak. Perhaps the only hope you can seem to muster is the thought that one day you might escape this pain. But what if I told you that in the middle of this season of pain, God is there? What if I told you that you can open your eyes and see God in the midst of your valley?

If you are anything like me, you may want to go through this season with your eyes clenched shut and your hands over your ears singing “la la la'' in hopes that you can guard yourself against the pain if you withdraw or ignore it. Can I tell you something? You are going to look back at this season and see the hand of God. Just like God walked with Joseph as he was sold into slavery and thrown into prison for something he didn’t do; just like He walked with Moses when he was rejected and when it seemed that things were just getting worse. He is walking with you also, through the pain, through the trials He is there, and He is mighty. In today’s reading the apostle Paul is writing to the church in Corinth. He reminds them that although they are going through hard times and persecution God is with them.

So, I challenge you, instead of waiting to look back, choose to look up while you are in a difficult season and see the hand of God. You don’t have to wait to see God in hindsight. You can choose to see Him TODAY! Right in the middle of the pain. When the pain is overwhelming, look for the almighty God! Because the truth is that no matter how great the pain, GOD IS GREATER! No matter how big the burden, GOD IS BIGGER!

Reflection Questions:

1. What do you know to be true about the strength of God?
2. How do you see that strength even in your most difficult moments?
3. How do you see the hand of God in your life right now?

Prayer:

Dear God, help us to see that you are with us in the midst of our pain and heartbreak. Help us to see your mighty hand. Help us to recognize that you are bigger than any giant and stronger than any mountain we may have in our life. Help us see you. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen!