What To Do When Life Becomes Turbulent

                                           
We continue to wait on the Department of Labor, and, afterwards, Immigration. We don't have a timeline. We don't have any idea what the final outcome will be. I have struggled a little today. I had moments of fear this morning, when I broke down and cried out to God... wondering, asking, questioning and worrying.

Through prayer, praise and worship, and the support of friends, I found myself standing up and kicking fear to the curb, because this is not what God promised. He did not promise a life of fear and worry. He told us to give Him our burdens, and He will carry them.



I believe in the Word of God. So I cannot hold onto fear.  I would like to share a devotion from Proverbs 31 Ministries, which was perfect for me today. It talks about our choices when our lives become turbulent.  I hope this can encourage someone.

What To Do When Life Becomes Turbulent LEAH DIPASCAL

"Yes, he alone is my Rock, my rescuer, defense and fortress. Why then should I be tense with fear when troubles come?" Psalm 62:2 (TLB)

As I headed down the gateway toward the plane, I noticed something was different. My heart wasn’t racing and my palms weren’t damp with perspiration. To say it was a phenomenon is an understatement.

The fact that I wasn’t afraid was proof God was changing me from the inside out. Years prior, you couldn’t have paid me enough to step foot on a plane.

As I looked out the plane window, I marveled at the beautiful day God created. There’s not a cloud in the sky … It’s going to be great flying weather. No bumps or turbulence to worry about. I can just sit back, relax and enjoy.

One hour into the flight I was singing a different tune. Although the sky was still clear, the turbulence was anything but enjoyable. Even the flight attendants were asked to take their seats, and the cockpit was silent. Uh … hello? Can someone tell me what’s going on up there?!?!

What started out as a relaxing flight turned into a stressful experience. With three hours left in the flight, I didn’t want to feel anxious the entire time. I needed to shift my focus off the turbulence and on to God.

With all the bumping, shifting and rattling, it wouldn’t be easy, but it was necessary. I was determined to learn from this experience, not be terrified by it.

So after praying for God’s protection, I closed my eyes and whispered, "God, what are You trying to teach me? What am I supposed to learn?"

For the remainder of the flight I waited and watched for God to reveal some invaluable lesson. By the time we landed I walked off the plane with this in mind: Unexpected turbulence creates an opportunity to experience more of God.

It’s the perfect opportunity to …

Grow my faith.
Rather than shrink back in fear or become discouraged, I can lean in and draw closer to God’s presence while looking for His activity in the midst of my circumstances. Patiently waiting for God to act on my behalf can be a catalyst for spiritual maturity and deeper faith in Him.

Remember Who is in control.
Remembering God is in control helps lead my heart and mind to a place of peace. I may not always know exactly where I’m headed, but God does. Regardless of how turbulent the journey may be, He promises to get me safely from my present location to His eternal destination (Heaven). Therefore, I have nothing to fear.

Make a refining decision.
Sometimes, turbulence is not an option. So I’m left with two questions: Am I going to worry and wonder if God will get me through this? Or, am I going to relax and trust that God will get me through this? Hebrews 11:6 give us the best answer: "… without faith, it is impossible to please God …" (NIV). I just need to apply it to my life. And when I do, God refines me in the process.

Watch for God’s goodness and glory.
When turbulence comes I can easily miss God’s goodness. I need to look for His glory around me and set my thoughts on the impossible He can do for me.

Has life been tossing you around lately? The next time you experience a little turbulence … whether on a flight or at ground level … remember that you have full access to the One who will hold you steady and secure. Just like Psalm 62:2 states, "Yes, he alone is my Rock, my rescuer, defense and fortress. Why then should I be tense with fear when troubles come?"

Heavenly Father, as I face today’s challenges, help me not to shrink back in fear or discouragement. Instead, teach me how to see these challenges as an opportunity to grow my faith, to remember You are in control, to be refined, and to experience Your goodness and glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:
Acts 2:25, "I see that the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me." (NLT)

Psalm 91:14-15, "The LORD says, ‘I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them.’" (NLT)

REFLECT AND RESPOND:

What has become a challenge in your life? Ask yourself these questions regarding this challenge:

1. Am I shrinking back in fear and discouragement or am I drawing closer to God’s presence?
2. Do I really believe God is in control of this situation?
3. Am I going to worry or trust God — believing He will get me through this?
4. How can I look for God’s goodness and glory in the midst of my challenge?

Be sure to record your answers in a journal or your Bible.

Waiting is the Hardest Thing to Do

So as of yesterday, our visa expired. However, being in the process of getting it renewed allows us to continue to stay.  We do not have a decision yet because immigration has requested more information.

                                                   

Request for Additional Evidence Notice Was Mailed

This means that the processing has been suspended until they receive the additional evidence, and then they will continue to make a decision.

So we find ourselves in a strange position. Legally, if they were to deny this application any day from today onward, we would have to pack up and leave the country immediately. The same day. A daunting thought? Oh yes! Scary? Absolutely? 

Of course, as a mom, my mind goes in a million ways thinking of what lies ahead.  Does this mean I have to leave my daughter again? What about my boys? It's the middle of the school year in South Africa. Where would we go? Where would we stay? How would we get around? How are we going to afford to actually get there? And so on, and so on.....

But then, I have to take a step back and remember what this journey has been about. This journey that has taken over 10 years. It's been a journey of faith, trust and hope.

                                   

I cannot allow myself to lose hope, faith or trust. God has NEVER yet let me down. It has been a long journey, and many have told me that it's unfair that we have been through so much and that this has not been easier. I guess I could wallow in that and complain about the fact that so many others have had an easier transition to permanent residence. But it wouldn't help me! Complaining never helps anyone.

I have found my strength in the fact that God has always provided a way for us. The times we have had to go back, He has provided what we've needed : money for air tickets, money to pay off everything we owe, a place to stay, transport, money to survive on, etc. We have NEVER found ourselves in want. NEVER been stuck in a place where we've been totally alone. He's always been there with us.

So why should this time be any different? Why should I worry about the future, or the way things are going to work out? God commands us not to be afraid. I am not going to go against that!

                                                

I am human, of course, and these moments of worry do pop up. I wouldn't be normal if they didn't. But for now, I'm going to lean on Him, worry about today, and let Him worry about tomorrow. I'm going to have hope for the future, and continue to trust that His plans and His timing are ALWAYS better than mine. Please continue to pray for us, that we may listen to and hear His voice. That we can encourage others in their journeys, knowing that, if you seek Him with your WHOLE heart, you WILL find Him. And if you delight yourself in Him, He will grant you the desires of your heart.