God Has Not Forgotten You: When Life Is Turned Upside DownÀpẹrẹ

Valuing What Matters Most

“I lost everything I had, but I still have my family. And that’s what matters most.” This was one of the most recurring quotes from survivors of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Crises tend to disrupt or destroy a lot of things that are valuable to us, but there are some things that even the most destructive disaster could never take away: your relationship with God and His love for you, and the love you share with family and friends. It’s that enduring love—even the love for a loved one you’ve lost—that matters most.

When dealing with difficult circumstances, it’s easy to take that love for granted. In our pain, anger, and frustration we can either withdraw from family and friends, lash out against them, or fail to realize their need for our support. But just as your family and friends need you to care for them when facing difficult circumstances, you also need them. In his letter to the Colossians, Paul wrote, “that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love” (Colossians 2:2).

Have you recently told your spouse, children, or other family members and friends that you love them? If not, be sure to tell them today. But don’t stop there. It’s not enough to just say I love you. We have to show love through our actions (see 1 John 3:18). Talk about the crisis together, listen to each other, cry together, comfort each other, and pray for each other. And whenever tragedy and loss cast a shadow on your spirit, remember the importance of valuing what matters most…each other.

Taking back your life

1. When tragedy or troubles hit our lives, it often makes us think about what’s important. What has this trial taught you about your priorities regarding your relationship with God? Your family? Would you say you have your priorities straight? What changes do you think are necessary?
2. Proverbs 3:6 (TLB) says, “In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success.” Make a new or renewed commitment today to put God first in your life. Spend time with Him every day in prayer and Bible reading. If you’re not already an active member of a Bible-teaching church, find one today, attend regularly, and get involved. Seek to honor Him in your relationships, your time, and your material resources.
3. Have you spent quality time building your relationship with your spouse? With your children? First John 3:18 (TLB) says, “Let us stop just saying we love people; let us really love them, and show it by our actions.” What are some practical ways you can show your spouse and children (or extended family and friends) that you really love them? How can you use this time now to build family relationships?