Thursday, June 27, 2013

By: Rachelle Hitt Bilbo

It Could Have Been Worse

Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

I was in a horrible car accident yesterday. I could see the car turning in front of me, and although I tried to hit my brakes, there was no way I could stop in time. Both of our vehicles are likely totaled, and a third vehicle was involved as well.

Thankfully, all involved are okay. While sitting in the ambulance getting checked out, I was consumed with thoughts of the many "what-ifs..." What if I would have left work a little later? What if I would have taken a different route instead? What if I would have been going a mile faster or a mile slower? WHAT IF?

In a situation like this, it is easy to dwell on the damaged cars, the inconvenience, the abrupt change of plans, and the "what-ifs." Maybe you have been there on an even higher level - a divorce, loss of a loved one, health challenges, financial distress, etc. - and you have been dwelling on what YOU could have done differently....and how life was NOT supposed to go THIS way.

Maybe you have even blamed God or others for the circumstances....

I learned yesterday that in these situations, there is a bigger WHAT IF. What if I didn't have a relationship with God? I looked at the paramedic taking my blood pressure and said, "I could have died today, and although that would have been bad because I have a family, I would have been okay because I have a relationship with Jesus."

The police officers told me that the impact of the accident was heard a few buildings down the street. They were surprised that everyone was okay, BUT I am not surprised.

I challenge you to always look for the grace of God in your situation. Because God gives us all free will, there will be decisions that adversely affect all of us in life. However, consider all the times God has protected you. As bad as that accident was, no one was severely injured and NONE of us had passengers in our cars. God truly protected us and our families.

I further challenge you to let go of the "what-ifs" and blame. You CANNOT go back and change the past. However, know that He is always there to be your "strength and refuge" if you put your trust in Him.

Dear Lord, Help me to realize Your grace in all situations I face. Even in my darkest hours, You ARE there for all that BELIEVE and live for You.

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.