Transform the Word

Have you ever faced a moment when life didn’t go as planned? What did you do?

Today, I found myself in one of those moments. The plans I was confident in, the direction I believed I was meant to follow, suddenly changed. For a while now, I’ve been serving on staff at a local church. But today, I was informed that my time on staff would come to an end in just two short weeks. This was not the outcome I anticipated as I walked into that meeting.

Immediately, my mind wanted to spiral through a maze of “what ifs.” Questions flooded my thoughts, and anxiety knocked at the door. But in that moment, I had a decision to make. Before saying a word, I had to pause and remind myself of who is truly in control. I had to refocus on God and His eternal plans, not just for me, but for my wife and son as well.

I’m not sharing this story to gain your pity or sympathy. Instead, I hope to encourage you through my own experience. When we face unexpected challenges, it’s so easy to jump to conclusions, take offense, and let our circumstances dictate our reactions. But this only leads to frustration and despair.

Psalm 46:1 reminds us: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

Let that sink in. God is always there—unchanging, steadfast, and ready to help us navigate even the most difficult of situations. Another powerful reminder comes from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

When life feels uncertain or overwhelming, we can find shelter in God’s presence. His strength is freely given to those who seek Him. Proverbs 18:10 reinforces this truth: “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

God is not only our refuge and strength—He is also the One who sees what we cannot. He knows our circumstances long before they unfold. Sometimes, God closes a door to prepare us for something greater. Trusting in Him during these moments is essential, even when we don’t understand His plan.

So let me ask you: Are you trusting God and keeping your eyes on Him, even when the road ahead feels uncertain? Are you looking beyond your circumstances and relying on Him as your shelter and strength?

Take time today to reflect. Be honest with yourself and with God. Are you following Him even when you can’t see where He is leading? Are you holding fast to Him when things get tough?

A wise youth pastor once gave me advice that has stayed with me: “Keep your focus vertical.” Always look up. Seek God’s guidance. Trust His plan. And never lose sight of the Father who holds your future in His hands.

The journey may not always be easy, but when we keep our focus on Him, we can walk forward in faith, knowing that His plans are always for our good.