Grace Over Shame

Not every day of our lives is going to pass by without issue. We all know that. We know to expect trouble and that there are going to be times when life is really hard. Where is God when things start to fall apart?

He is there in the drama.

Some of us face issues with family members. They are constantly fighting with us, nothing we do pleases them, or they abandon us and we can’t even get in touch with them. Where is God when our own families are hurting us?

He is there in the drama.

Some of us have health issues that cause us to struggle, and we are always tired and never at our best. Some of us are scared about our futures and wonder how we will get by financially. We wonder why God isn’t making life easier. Where is God when we are suffering?

He is there in the drama.

God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, into this broken, messy, painful world to be with us. He lived through what we’re going through: family issues, intense suffering, and ridicule. While God might not take away all the mess we face until Jesus returns, He is right there with us as we walk through it. Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, He gives us hope. As we struggle to figure out what moves to make, He has answers for us. Life on earth isn’t always going to be easy. We all know that. But God is there in all the drama. • Emily Acker

• If you or someone you know is suffering from abuse or neglect, or if the situation is potentially life-threatening, call 911 (or the emergency number for your area) or go to the local hospital emergency room right away. If you need someone to talk to but are not in need of immediate help, you can set up
an appointment for a one-time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on the Family Counseling Service. In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate.

• When life is really hard, how might knowing that God is right here in the mess with us through His Holy Spirit, His Word, and His people encourage us (Romans 5:3-5; 2 Corinthians 1:3-11)?

The Lord is near the brokenhearted; he saves those crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 (CSB)

Read Verses:

Galatians 6:1-2; Ephesians 2:1-10; 5:25b-27; 1 Corinthians 6:11-20