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“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV)

Content?
In any and every situation?

Really, Lord?
How can this be?

A few months ago, God’s timing was to take my husband “home” to heaven to be with Him. We were aging and had issues we dealt with on a daily basis, but had not given consideration that any of them were at a point of taking us “home”! So needless to say, my husband’s unexpected journey to his heavenly home was a total surprise to me.

Oh, what a tough time!

I was sure God did not really understand what He was doing. I was sure it was not my husband’s time to go “home”. In a matter of seconds, all of my hopes and dreams were gone! I could not understand how God thought I was going to be able to continue living! So many questions entered my mind.

Why did this happen? And why now?

Have you ever been there?

This was a situation in my life where I just couldn’t process why God would allow something like this to happen. I realize now that this is perfectly normal and isn’t unspiritual.

Another way to put these questions into words is this: “Now that this is my reality, what am I supposed to do with it?”

Can I learn from this?

What part of this is for my protection?

Are there other opportunities God is providing for me?

What maturity could God be building into me? I memorized these verses to help me with my worries and cares.

If you will humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, in his good time he will lift you up. Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.
I Peter 5: 6-7 (The Living Bible)

Sisters, I must admit to you, that this journey of widowhood has not been an easy one for me. My life changed completely in a matter of a few seconds. In just a couple of weeks after losing my husband, I had to go through all of our personal possessions, left my friends, and my church, and moved to another state to be with family.

Was it easy? No! But, it was a way for me to find a perspective beyond situations where I felt God had allowed something in my life I didn’t understand.

I will be the first to tell you how much I still miss my husband of 48 years, but I will also tell you that time has allowed many changes in my life too! I am so thankful for my family and dear friends who walk with me, but most of all for my God who is there for every step I take! He has certainly given me an increased desire to draw closer to Him than I ever did before!

God is there for you too …. trust Him and ask Him to walk with you, too!

Lord, help me to process everything I face in life through the filter of Your love. Sometimes it’s hard to understand the circumstances that come my way. I find myself consumed with trying to figure things out rather than looking for Your perspective and trusting You. Please help me to trust You, completely – thank You! Amen