The Comfort of A Sovereign God

"But our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases." -Psalm 115:3

In the past couple weeks I have been surrounded by people (both that I know personally and don't) who are facing some intense trials.  A father who lost his son moments after birth, a mother who just found out she has cancer, a grandmother walking through chemotherapy, a husband and father of three, disabled for life...

I have found myself in tears on a few occasions as I think about the reality of life and death and the Sovereign God who holds it all in His hands.  I have been reminded of this precious Truth and comforted by it.  Although I am not walking through these personally, my heart aches for those who are.  I wonder how grace is experienced in moments like those, grace that I've never known, and yet is promised to the children of God when they face trials such as these.  I wonder how the world views the suffering their enduring, and as I see some suffering well, I am encouraged and blessed knowing God is being glorified.  

All of this reflection has brought me to another area of sanctification in my own heart and life with regards to the little child in my womb.  They are not mine.  Yes, I know this in my head, but just the thought of not ever getting to hold them, not seeing their first birthday, their first steps, etc. brings tears to my eyes.  I am not dwelling on what is not true, but rather I am reminding myself of REALITY and allowing my faith to be strengthened by the Truth of a Sovereign God.  I wonder if my response would be the same as the man who held his child who died moments after birth; a response of trust, worship, and thankfulness.  Would I be comforted by knowing the Truth that God is sovereign?  Do I trust that as the Psalmist writes, the days of my child's life are written out, and I cannot add one or take one away?  This is powerfully sanctifying to ponder.  

I pray with my whole heart that God would teach me, and equip me to remember that this child is not my own, just as my life is not my own.  To remember that my days are numbered, as is theirs.  And to trust and find comfort in the good and perfect plan of a sovereign God.  

I look forward to that DAY when with eyes I will see Him high and lifted up, and it will all make sense, because my faith will finally be made sight.

From the words of a father who lost his son moments after birth, "I am thankful that God gives me the strength to say “Your will is all I need” and to trust the care of all my children to the one who surrendered His “own body to the wrath reserved for me.”