BlindsidedSample

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

Scripture is chock full of reminders that we're called to persecution as believers. (2 Tim 3:12) Yet here we are, blindsided and shocked in full disbelief that someone/something has turned our life upside down for now.

We should have expected some type of slap around the corner from our obedience, right? Now God doesn't always allow a slap around every corner...but it can sometimes feel that way. That's where developing those habits we just discussed comes into play. Scriptures in our hearts can be a tremendous tool if we have been sincerely working on our relationship with Christ. He is good at reminding us through His Word by quoting in His still, small voice, "Remember, I said..." (you fill in the blanks).

I was blindsided fiercely by someone whom I dearly love—completely taken by surprise. Shocked. Stunned. Flabbergasted. Confused. Upset. Hurt. Offended. ALL.THE.FEELS. I was not left alone in this turmoil, nor was I destroyed despite how bad it hurt. Why? 2 Corinthians 4:81-10, that's why. Because I "understood my assignment." I am an Ambassador for Christ. This means I need to grow to expect times of great trouble, sorrow, & pain, but at the same time, I understand that I have The Power to overcome all of it through Jesus Christ! (2 Cor 5:20, 1 John 5:4)

What I realized is that it wasn't my job to figure out what/when/where/why this occurred. It did not take The Lord by surprise, only me.

Initially, I wanted to lash back out in my hurt. But, in God's infinite wisdom, He said to me, "Do not respond right now. Pray and seek Me." As hard as it was to hold my thoughts from coming out of my mouth, I obeyed. Then, I got a repeat a few days later with the same offense. Immediately, I had discernment kick in. Satan was after me and my relationships amid obedience to God. I had no idea what I had done/not done/said/not said to bring this on. I prayed. I sought God. I knew that it's up to Him alone to change hearts and minds, and there is nothing that I can personally do beyond prayer and apology.

Hurting people, "hurt people." It happens all the time.

Expect the unexpected in your life. Seek to understand the heart of God concerning the hurting people who hurt people, and emulate Jesus in the midst of it all. (1 John 2:6)