WHEN THE FUTURE WE PLANNED IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN

It's been nearly four years since we came to the life detour that changed everything. Felt like the fellow that had a job at the railroad driving trains. When he wrecked and totaled it, his first thought was "Now I need to be retrained!"

 And what a retraining it has been! From left-handed eating to eye-gaze technology, this has touched every aspect of our lives. 

 And, to God be the glory, it is amazing how God has provided for each need as it comes. We have been clearly blessed by God, though we can't explain exactly how, we have been reminded of a few things about His working in our lives!

We know we are not alone. Many of you are facing life-altering challenging circumstances. Physically, emotionally, financially, relationally, and spiritually. It could be what I call "early onset" old age, a failing or loveless marriage, prodigal wayward children, or a seeming back side of the desert job. Impassable mountains and giants remind us of how big and wise our God really is!

WHAT TO DO NOW

Don't obsess about why you are suffering or the physical outcome.

 When you look back, be thankful. When you look ahead, be hopeful. Remember God doesn't rubberstamp your plans, you follow His plan for your future.

 It is a day by day faith that has always sustained us. Confusion, frustration and uncertainty always need to be brought to God first.

 Living the future God planned.

Even when you recognize this is God's will for us, on some days the tears flow through the hardness without warning. This season is restrictive, messy and in many ways unpredictable beyond what we imagined.

Like a flood, the past two years has brought retirement, relocation and resettlement. New house, new church, new nursing home for Vicki's parents, new doctors and clinics.

Positively, new friends, new neighbors and new classes.

 When real life shoots at you point-blank, Job is a good template with his three hundred plus questions that reminds us that God is all wise and knows how to get our attention.

I have found some great insight from Job that maybe will help you today.

 God’s purposes are often hidden from us. When Vicki went into the hospital on her birthday last September, we have been totally overwhelmed with support from established friends and new friends alike.

He owes us no explanations. The joy of the journey doesn't preclude dark clouds and window shaking thunder. Scary times.

 We owe Him our complete love and trust. This has to be my view from a power wheelchair.

We must be honest with ourselves and with God. When hurt deeply, what we really need is not an explanation from God but a revelation of God.

If you are struggling with the rocky path before you, we shouldn’t pretend we don’t struggle. God welcomes the weak and weary. He is the source of rest, peace and joy for the future... the one that is best for us.