What a pleasure to hear devotional thoughts from Jennifer Epperson this week! Take a moment to stop by the contributors table to learn more about her.
October 2001, nine weeks into my sophomore year of high school, a call came in for me at the school office. My dad called to inform me that it would be my last day at the public high school. Moving forward, my nine-year old younger brother and I would be homeschooled by my stepmom. I was devastated. It felt like the world was spinning out of control.
I hated the idea of leaving behind my friends, acquaintances, and teachers. I had sobbing spells in my bedroom quite frequently as the weeks and months passed. I prayed harder than I ever remembered praying—that God would fix this—change my parents’ minds—because I just couldn’t live like this. I felt so depressed and lonely. Eventually, I realized that it kind of felt like my prayers were hitting the ceiling and bouncing back down on my head.
God convicted me. I wasn’t praying for what He wanted but for what I wanted. So, my prayers began to change. “Lord, please help me.” And as time passed, I eventually understood that this change was good. My parents were doing what they knew was best for me, and God was using it to draw me closer to Himself.
The point being—I went to school one day, and my life looked a certain way. Then, suddenly, it was never going to be the same again. But that change that seemed so terribly awful, God used to change me for the better.
Friday night, August 23, 2024, was a life-changing moment for our church family. Many members-past and present- of the church and community gathered to pray and to comfort each other as most of our church building burned. Naturally, this has caused many emotions for all of us. Of course, there has been some sadness.
It hurts to see your church home reduced to a shell—to recall memories made and realize that there won’t be new ones made there. But sadness hasn’t been the overwhelming emotion. Our gracious God has given us peace and hearts of thankfulness. The building may be gone, but our church is still here! God protected His people. We are still able to worship together.
Yes, life looks different now. But God is using this season of change to bring us closer to each other and closer to Him. We have peace because we know that this is for our good and His glory. And we are excited to see the new things He has in store for us. Perhaps you are currently dealing with a big life-change.
I know I can think back to many that I have experienced over the years. It can be confusing, scary, disheartening—but God can use it. Don’t let this drive you away from Him. Let Him use it for your good. Watch and see what new things He can do in your life.
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