God's Peace in the Midst of a Crisis
- Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., LCSW
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She did not notice it was a beautiful bright summer day. She had just come from the doctor's office where she hoped she would learn the cause of her physical ailments. There was not a devastating diagnosis, as she had feared because the tests were inconclusive. Instead, she would have to endure waiting several more weeks before the tests could be repeated. The thought of more waiting was difficult to bear.
Driving home, she was overwhelmed with anxiety, anger, frustration, and fear. As she had done many times before, she cried out to God and tears streamed down her face. The drive home was a blur. When she arrived home, she sat motionless in the car for a long time. The months of enduring her physical pain, and the emotional strain of not knowing, had taken its toll. She was emotionally exhausted and physically drained. She was at the end of her strength and her resources.
Unable to move, unable to think, unable to feel, all she could do was to sit and wait. Wait for an answer or a sign. After being still, she recalled something that an old friend would often say to her. At the time, she did not understand what he meant. Now she remembered, "God is God." That simple phrase now had a profound impact on her, as she finally realized its meaning. She realized she was still in the palm of God's hand. God was still at work in her life. God still loved her and desired to bless her. Her circumstances had changed but God had not changed. His word promises, "I the Lord do not change." Malachi 3:6a; "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever;" Hebrews 13:8. She allowed this revelation to wash over her and comfort her. As she gradually submitted to His Will, an indescribable peace began to take root in her heart. She found comfort in the realization she could rely on His inexhaustible strength. Months after this experience, I have seen how the peace that transcends all understanding has grown in this young woman's heart. She still experiences the physical discomfort and the medical uncertainty of her condition. However, she also experiences the certainty of a loving God, a faithful Father and constant companion.
I the Lord do not change. Malachi 3:6a
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