In His Strength
Recently, I made a conscious shift in my prayers. I’m not trying to evade difficult seasons but I’m asking for God’s strength in the midst of the storm. It took me a long time to grasp that Christians, too, go through difficult times; I shouldn’t expect a soft life because I follow Christ. This world is fallen and no one escapes trouble.
“We know the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.” (Romans 8: 22-23)
God began to show me it is fruitless asking to escape the storm after the first raindrop but rather how can my faith grow in this moment? How will His power shine bright? How can He help me to see His grace in the situation?
I don’t believe God allows storms into our lives without a purpose; His ways are higher than our ways.
“Then the Lord said to Satan, ‘Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.’...The Lord said to Satan, ‘Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.’ Job 1: 8; 12.
Commentary (Life Application Study Bible, NIV): Job was a model of trust and obedience to God, yet God permitted Satan to attack him in an especially harsh manner. Although God loves us, believing and obeying him do not shelter us from life’s calamities. Setbacks, tragedies, and sorrows strike Christians and non-Christians alike. But in our tests and trials, God expects us to express our faith to the world. How do you respond to your troubles? Do you ask God, ‘Why me?’ or do you say, ‘Use me!’
I have had to ask for God’s strength frequently in motherhood. I registered Zuri for a 4th of July craft event at a library but there wasn’t a lot of information provided. I didn’t know what the activity was, how many people would be there, etc. With several unknowns I tried not to let fear lead to anxiety. Seeking to pray through the situation and not out of it, I asked God not to make Zuri be a perfect, well-behaved child, but rather to make me a confident, flexible mom. You know what? He answered my prayer. Did Zuri cry when the librarian put paint on her foot? Yes. Did she complete all the paint activities? No. Did I nervously sweat? Yes. But did we enjoy a change of scenery, get out of our comfort zones, and have fun? Yes, and I also grew my faith.
I encourage you to lean into God in prayer whatever He is carrying you through. I know you’ll be stronger on the other side; He’s got you.
“So do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
