At times, we seem to inadvertently encounter the presence of goodness in our lives. In fact, this goodness might grace our lives even in the midst of otherwise dark and difficult seasons. This doesn’t minimize the hurt and pain that we must still endure. But it lets us endure with greater hope as we also resist giving into despair.
To be sure, job loss, the death of a loved one, betrayal, or the like are not generally welcomed experiences. They bring a lot of suffering and grief that takes its toll on our soul. And, at least initially, our hurt can seem overwhelming and all consuming. All we see is how much things are not as we want them to be.
Of course, we do well to honor our grief and in no way assume we must rush through it to better days. At the same time, we can remain open to the collateral benefits that might come our way.
For example, a job loss might allow us to rediscover hidden talents and desires long forgotten, a funeral can reunite us with family and friends we’ve not seen in years, and even a betrayal might expose us to our own areas of growth and the things we’ve taken for granted.
This is not to suggest these benefits are the reason we’re going through our difficulties, but it’s a reminder that goodness is not too far off from even our darkest days. As such, while part of us might wish our story took a different turn, there’s also a deep gratitude for the goodness that has blessed our days – a goodness that flows directly from the hardships we had to endure. And so we live with hope – keeping our eyes open to the infinite ways God might make something beautiful out of our heartache and pain
In the end, weep when you experience the brokenness and grief of this life. And let your heart stay open to the many collateral benefits God is still bringing your way.
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