by Kala Loptien

Trust the Process

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“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
Isaiah 55:8-9 English Standard Version 

Our golden girl needed some tests and monitoring recently. They recommended she stay at the animal hospital. She was visibly nervous. It was difficult to agree to the recommendation. We knew it was the best option for her. It needed to happen in order to determine the next course of action and ultimately provide healing. She had no idea what was happening. In my mind, she was wondering where we were, why she was left in this place and when/if we would return.

As an animal owner, we have to make decisions for these sweet creatures. They can’t comprehend that we are doing things for their good. We make decisions outside of their control. And yet, they are unbelievably loyal. I knew when we went to see her the next morning, she wouldn’t hold a grudge. She would just run to me, with her ears perked and her tail wagging uncontrollably.

I see some similarities in our lives when we are unable to see or understand the plans, ways and thoughts of our heavenly Father. There are times we find ourselves in incomprehensible situations, storms and trials. Sometimes the answer we think is best isn’t what God has planned — or at least not initially. We are reminded in Isaiah that His ways and thoughts are far beyond our own. What is our response? Do we run to Him–clinging with all our might? Do we trust His will and ways over our own plans and ideas? God’s plans are for our good, whether we’re able to understand in the moment or not. Because ultimately, we know His plan for us includes eternity with Him — and that’s immeasurably more than anything we could’ve ever asked or imagined.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado