{{item.title | uppercase}}

Have you ever asked God “Why me?”…

When pain or problems enter my life, that seems to be my first question. I know that the Lord loves me, and my faith is grounded in that fact. Both pain and love are present in this life. One does not eliminate the other. How can we experience such pain, and reconcile God’s love in the same breath? God is compassionate, and I am reminded that we can see the Lord’s fingerprints all over our lives. He is always faithful.

Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:21-23 (ESV)

From our vantage point what we see is where we happen to be in this moment. Often, we are unaware of the smaller bits and pieces of what God is doing around us. Sometimes from our perspective it does not make sense. God uses suffering to equip us for the plans He has for us. The real question that we need to answer is what purpose or mission the Lord has for each of us now.

“What now Lord?”

Starting tomorrow, how could we make a difference? Scripture points clearly to the importance of bringing glory to God as we journey through this life. What can we do differently or what changes can we make to bring Him glory in our daily living. We do not need to question God’s sovereignty, with a “Why me?” question. Instead, we seek His will by asking “What now Lord?”.

Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.
Colossians 3:23-24 (NASV)

When you ask the question “What Now?”, the answer might look different for each person. Yet we ALL need to seek the Lord’s direction. God can use each of us as we meet the need of someone else, whether it is baking cookies and sharing them or pulling weeds in a neighbor’s flowerbed. Here are just a few ideas to begin considering.

Create a list of non-profits from your community with volunteer opportunities.
Connect in person with a neighbor, or friend that could use support.
If you have a telephone, you can text or make a personal call.
If you cannot meet in person, mail a card or note this week.
Prayer for someone God brings to mind is ALWAYS the Right choice.

For me, serving others, by helping with gardening, and being available to share coffee or listen to their story provides opportunities to pray and see God work. Recently, I volunteered to spend some time at a ministry near my local church. On my drive over I nearly turned around several times. I felt as though I had nothing to offer. I was struggling to overcome my own losses. As I drove, I prayed for courage and wisdom. It was then I was reminded that I could always listen.

I might not have all the answers, but I know Jesus and He always provides the words I need. The group of volunteers showed up and worked with the homeless that came by. We sorted clothing donations, fed people I had never seen before and shared the love of Jesus. Jesus was the link that bound our hearts together. He made the difference.

Lord,

We come to you asking the question “What now?”.

We are searching for Your will and clarity in our life.

We long to feel a sense of purpose and direction as we seek to find ways to glorify you.

Thank you for Your love in the midst of pain and loss.

Give us ears to listen to others without judgement and eyes to see the need of those around us.

We ask that You work in our lives as we serve the people You bring to us.

Provide wisdom, and grace as we seek Your will.

May we become the hands and feet of Jesus.

Amen.