On purpose

Yesterday everything seemed so right – you know that feeling, like finally things that were so daunting have worked themselves out. Today, not so much. Do you ever long for no more ups and downs? Just one thing to go right?

When you’ve been on a journey where seemingly ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ was right in front of you, it’s oh so hard to take a step back. It can seem unfair. It can feel like being abandoned. The enemy of our soul would really like for us to think these thoughts, feel these feelings. But our Savior wants us to take our eyes off circumstances. How?

Over these last couple years, I have often thought ‘I wonder if anyone else ever feels this way, thinks these thoughts’ – and I’ve found out: I’m not the only one. I’m human. God designed us just the way we are. Whether we’re glass half-full people, or half-empty, there is a purpose in our lives – for where we are, who we are, and where we’re going.

What can the purpose be of our setbacks? Our heartaches? Our physical pain? Our fear or sorrow or anger? Especially when we thought we had gotten beyond some of those things.

I’m reminded that Jesus did tell us that in this world we will have trouble. And that He has overcome this world. And this reminder also: “For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith.” (1John 5:4NLT) Even though it may not seem so…

Before time began Christ was the plan for us in all our troubles. An Old Testament full of mankind trying to do it their way and failing, and a few who sought God no matter what knowing that He is true and His plan is sure. And we are on the other side of the Cross, where we know the best is yet to come. But we are human and slow to learn and weary on the journey.

“I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me.” (Psalm 57:2 BSB) When we cry out, He is there – and He is even when we forget He has a purpose. We may not like the fallen way of the world we live in and the effects on our lives, but we grow so much through them. Becoming more like Jesus in the process.

Now we see dimly the Bible tells us. Someday we will see clearly. And in that someday we will see His face and not even remember this relatively short journey to forever.