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This afternoon, I took my mother to the doctor. Sitting next to us in the waiting room was a young man who was conversing with a friend. He was telling the story of his mom. He described her as a raging alcoholic.
I’ve been pretty caught up in my own grief recently. But that moment in the doctor’s office today reminded me that everyone has something. And most “something’s” are painful.
We all have some sort of worry. This might seem strange to say, but knowing that brings me comfort. Why? Because this means we aren’t alone. Regardless of what type of grief or trouble we might be facing, someone else is facing it too. And there is something we can do for each other.
We can pray.
I’ve had so much prayer support over the last two weeks. There are moments when I can actually feel it. And even in the moments when I can’t, I trust that people are praying and it sets me at ease. God is at work.
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us…
-Ephesians 3:20
I used to look at the above scripture and cling to it tightly in moments when I believed for my dreams to come true, or in times of thankfulness to God for all He had done in my life. But today, I’m looking at it through a much different lens.
To make it through the death of a loved one, or any kind of life-changing situation that seems negative, we need to trust He is working exceedingly and abundantly above all we ask or think inside our hearts. It isn’t necessarily about our God meeting materialistic or monetary needs in our lives. It isn’t about how successful we are or even all the good things He’s done thus far. (though He deserves glory for it all) It’s about Him working inside the precious places that make up our ministries- that make up the stories of our lives. We must believe that somehow, someway He is raining peace inside the storm. And when we sleep, we can find comfort in knowing that He will send angels to minister sweet songs of rest after the long, hard day. Tell me that isn’t working exceedingly and abundantly above all we ask or think…
The word of God is light and life. What it says is honest and true. And because I believe that, I believe He is working exceedingly and abundantly above all I ask or think deep inside every corner and crevice in this heart of mine. And He is doing the same inside of you as well.
I’m praying for you. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You aren’t alone and you never will be. Others are travelling a road similar to yours and even if they weren’t, even if I wasn’t, Jesus will always be there. He will carry you. He will do exceedingly and abundantly above all you could ask or think. Your heart is precious and He won’t let it go without a fight.
…to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 3:21
Love,
Jennifer
We all have something, that is so true. We never know what the person standing next to us is going through. Thankful for the revelation that God has given to you. Continuing to pray for you and your family.
Thank you, Barbie.
so beautiful, so comforting and encouraging- so full of hope!! reading this has been like pulling up a blind to let the sun and it’s warmth just flood through the darkness!!
I’m so glad, Amy!
what a great scripture…the power of those words has to be repeated several times to let them sink in..and you are right about it not just being success or monetary benefit…to get us through the aching gut wrenching places of life…the storms of life…it must be exceedingly abundantly more than what we can imagine!
He is faithful! Thank you for reading, Somer.
mmm … good, good, Jennifer. Sometimes it takes an overheard conversation to re-orient us to what is most important …
I agree, Linda.
Everyone does have a something, don’t we?! And thank God for His promises that can take us through the lows and the highs. Thank you for these words – linking up and visiting from coffee for your heart! Bless you
Thank you for visiting, Jamie.
No life is easy and I think you are right-knowing that can ease our pain. At the moment of our pain and grief, we are not alone. I pray for peace to always be in your heart.
Thank you, Sarah. I feel the prayers and I appreciate them greatly!
I’ve been thinking of you, friend. Your faith and hope in the middle of hurt is so beautiful. Thank you for being a comfort and encouragement to us. XO
Thank you, Holley.