I recently ‘celebrated’ the one-year anniversary of losing my faithful kitty, Harley. Completely unexpected and far too soon, losing him almost broke me completely. But God.
The Bible tells us God is everywhere, but sometimes it feels like He is nowhere. It’s in those moments where we have to walk by faith, standing on the promises God has made. Promises to never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Promises to be near to the broken-hearted (Psalm 34:18). Promises to collect all our tears in a bottle (Psalms 56:8).
Our feelings may fail us, But God never will. Our faith may falter, but God is forever faithful.
Feeling God’s presence is easy when serving on the mission field or in the midst of a worship night. When we are basking in God’s blessings, His nearness is almost palpable. But He is no farther away and no less God when our world seems to be crumbling around us. When we receive a cancer diagnosis, need a job, our marriage falls apart, or we lose a loved one; He is still nearby and sitting on His throne.
I spent time on my closet floor this morning remembering my final moments with Harley, and do you know what I discovered? The God of the mountain tops and mission trips is also the God of my closet floor. The God of joy in the morning is also the God of weeping in the night. The God of peace that surpasses all understanding is also the God of profound pain. The God of hope is also the God of the hurting. The God of blessing to overflow is also the God of the broken-hearted.
Deep grief is the price of great love. And He is the God of them both.
2 comments
Beautiful, Cyndi. I’m so sorry about sweet Harley and so grateful God was with you in your heartache and continues to remind us of His constant love.
xoxo
Thank you my friend! Coming on the heels of losing both my parents it was like the final blow that sucked every bit of wind out of my sail. Grateful for a God who is my ever-present help!