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Our New Normal

I didn't ask for the changes that took place in my life - and I'm going to guess you didn't either. We've learned that not all life-changing decisions are within our control. Other people have chosen how things would go, and with their choices, we found ourselves in a new normal we didn't want.

As I stumbled to find my footing in my new normal, few things brought me more peace than knowing nothing has happened to us that hasn't first passed through the caring hands of our Heavenly Father. And more than that, God has a plan. I am so thankful for Jeremiah 29:11-13, where we're reminded, "'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. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.'"

God isn't surprised about this season you're in - He isn't scratching His head or wondering what happened. No way. Our God is an active, hands-on, heavily invested Father who knows exactly what we're going through.

New normals are disorientating; when we focus solely on the unwelcome changes in our lives, we quickly become overwhelmed. But what if this new normal offers a unique opportunity?

As a therapist, I encourage people to consider a different perspective as a way to shed new light on a situation. For example, have you considered the possibility that this experience with rejection may be a divine repositioning? What if it's a rescue and our Heavenly Father has big plans for this new season of your life? Is it possible God is protecting you from something outside of His will?

In 2 Samuel 22:17, we read that God "reached down from heaven and rescued me; he drew me out of deep waters." And a little further down in verse 20, "He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me."

Our stories are different, but our God is the same - so we know He will use this new normal to bring us closer to Him. And sometimes, He has to interrupt the familiar to draw us closer to Him and to set us up on a different path.

Today as you navigate your new normal, may you feel the active hands of God supporting and guiding you towards a deeper understanding of His love for you and His investment in your life.

Healing Activity

Complete this sentence, “If this is a rescue, God may be rescuing me from _______________. And what might He be rescuing me for?” Pray about this and ask God to show you how the rejection or betrayal you’ve experienced may be a rescue in disguise.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for rescuing me. It hasn’t always felt like a rescue, but I trust You and Your plan for me. I know You have great plans for me. Please give me the courage and faith I need to navigate this new normal. And please draw my attention to You in my life and show me what you have rescued me for. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.