God knows - I don't - so what? Staring at the crumpled front-end of our brand new car, it was hard to believe that God was in it. After hitting the deer, we limped our way back to the nearest little town - it was the first day of our summer vacation. With comments of despair being bantered about, our oldest child, then a 12-year-old, made the announcement: "Listen, God has a plan for everything so just trust Him." A gut punch for sure - she remembered what we had taught her and now used it to remind us that this didn't happen by chance...from the mouths of babes, as they say.
Twelve years later found us standing at the grave of our youngest 21-year-old child ... the greatest challenge a parent can know. As coach so aptly put it, "Life is hard, hard, hard and then you die!" Whew . . . is this a loving God? We can shout a resounding yes for we experienced the life lesson of trust in the sovereignty of the One who made us. And how did this happen? It was borne in us as we poured out our hurting and broken hearts to the God of the universe followed by proclaiming, with jaws clenched, "No matter what has happened, You are our sovereign God and we will trust you!"
I am the one who creates the light and makes the darkness. I am the one who sends good times and bad times. I, the Lord, am the one who does these things. Isaiah 45:7
The same living and loving God that spoke these comforting words to His people thousands of years ago, spoke them into our hearts that day reminding us that He is in control and in so doing ELIMINATED CHANCE.
It often occurs to me, particularly before or during a very crucial game, that no matter the outcome God has a plan and it is better than ours. In those moments I find myself whispering a prayer that goes something like this: "Whether we win or whether we lose - it is all in your best plan for us. Thank you, Sovereign Lord."
Today we cautiously consider the absolute sovereignty of God. It is a difficult concept, but one that brings indescribable peace, renewing hope and lasting joy.
"Learn well the song of sovereignty: I know God knows what's best. No struggle will come your way apart from his purpose, presence, and permission. We live beneath the protective palm of a sovereign King who superintends every circumstance of our lives and delights in doing us good." Max Lucado (from Upwords selection Do You Trust Him?)
As sportmoms who are followers of Christ, we can rest assured that nothing comes our way that has not first passed through Father-filtered love. Each tear we shed is but a dim reflection of God's tears for us.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you. For I am the Lord your God. Isaiah 43:2-3 NASB
It is not by chance that our lives unfold. These words, written by Paul, give us perspective eliminating the possibility of happenstance as we follow Christ.
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
Win or lose, good day or bad day, sunshine or rain we can be sure that our God has gone before us eliminating chance.
Blessings...as you boldly live a CHANCE ELIMINATED life in Christ!
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