Your attitude in facing a crisis in life will always determine how you come out on the other end. You can either weclome the crisis as an opportunity to mature and become stronger, or you can resent the crisis as an unwelcome intruder and become bitter. How are you doing in the crisis you are facing?
I find it interesting that the Chinese word for “crisis” combines two characters: one for danger and the other for opportunity. Is it not true that a crisis not only alerts us to imminent danger but also provides previously unexplored opportunities? The Hebrew word for “crisis” carries much the same idea. The term literally means “a birthing stool.” It refers to a piece of furniture upon which a Jewish woman would position herself in Old Testament times to aid in the delivery of her baby. To be sure the stool was a place of pain and trauma. A woman in labor might feel as if she were being swallowed up in contractions. But at the end, travail gives way to the marvelous moment of new birth and in that moment agony turns to fulfillment.
In the same way, a crisis in life can actually midwife a whole new set of blessings as our desperation pushes us into the arms of Jesus to discovery His love and purposes for our lives. One of the most wonderful promises God gives His children is that absolutely nothing can touch our lives that He cannot work for our ultimate good (Romans 8: 28).
I know military life is full of crisis, especially with the multiple deployments and all the dangers and challenges that presents, not only to the soldier, but the entire family. Yes it can be frightening and painful but never lose sight that God wants to transform your crisis into an opportunity to grow your faith in God, refine your character, and draw you closer to Him and one another. I encourage you to turn to God and let him birth a blessing through the crisis of your life! My love and prayers are with you. Pastor Andy
