Lost In The Moment

It’s funny sometimes how you get all the necessary information, knowledge and even experience about something, intentionally or not, but once it’s time to make use of that knowledge, phew! It’s gone, leaving you with thoughts as to whether you made a mistake getting the knowledge.

Has this ever happened to you? Well, it has to me.

Days ago, there was a fire incident where I stay and it was totally unexpected. Of course, nobody expects a fire breakout, but that’s besides the point. The moment it started, panic was in the air, and we all started rushing to get the fire to go out to no avail. Instead, it kept increasing. 

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 23:4 (ESV)

Impulsively, I poured some water over it, but it didn’t seem to have any effect so I started to call for help from the neighbors. My friend asked for a blanket, but I was so frazzled I didn’t respond. All I wanted was for the fire to go out. Eventually, in an unexpected way, the fire stopped, and we all relaxed, grateful no one was hurt.

We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28 (ESV)

Soon, we started sharing our experiences and perspectives about all that had happened. Out of the blue, my friend’s sister (who happened to have been at the scene when the fire started) said, “To think I already got trained in how to put out fire back in school!”

This got me thinking about how possible it is that you have been well equipped for a situation, a role, or even an opportunity, but when it comes up unexpectedly, you lose balance and the sense of preparedness, and then guilt sets in.

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)

Life’s challenges can sometimes leave us questioning whether we are truly equipped to handle them. But even in moments of uncertainty and setbacks, we must remember that God equips us. He does not leave us.

Just like this fire incident, we may face situations where all our knowledge and training seem to disappear, but that doesn’t mean we should give up. It’s in these moments that our faith is tested and strengthened.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)

No matter the setback, God is there to guide and help us. Setbacks are often opportunities for growth, learning, and drawing closer to God.

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

James 1:2-3 (ESV)

When faced with challenges, how do you respond? Do you let fear and guilt hold you back, or do you trust that God is still with you? Or do you view every setback as an opportunity for an even stronger comeback?

Be reminded; God will see you through, so never give up.

Shalom!