God is Good in the Midst of the Storm
By Shelly Schumacher
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28
To say that 1999 was a tumultuous year for my husband and me would be an understatement. January started with the announcement that we were expecting a second child, but our joy quickly turned to sorrow when I suffered a miscarriage early in the pregnancy. By Shelly Schumacher
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28
By late April, we learned I was pregnant again. We were cautiously optimistic when we saw the baby’s heartbeat, but the next day our hopes were dashed again, when Nick was diagnosed with testicular cancer. The following week, he underwent surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, and in early June, his radiation treatments began just days before I was diagnosed with a low-lying placenta. Our summer was spent taking turns throwing up.
Have you ever had a season in your life where you could barely keep your head above the water before the next storm threatened to take you under? Perhaps like Nick and I, you have found yourself desperately clinging to God. There are times when we cannot see through the fog as we wrestle with the fears that come from “what if…” questions: “What if I lose the baby again?” “What if we can’t pay the bills?” “What if he dies?” In those dark times, it is important to remember that God’s Word promises us that He will cause all things to work together for good—not just some things. Despite the trials we encounter, we can take comfort in knowing that He is in control and He will see us through by giving us encouragement and respite from the storm at just the right moments.
1999 ended with a brand-new baby girl, our 5 pound 13 ounce, 17 inch miracle. As we rang in the new millennium, we took some time to reflect on the blessings our difficult year had produced—a stronger marriage, larger family, a good prognosis for Nick and a renewed sense of the awesome power of our God.
As we all take a look back at 2008 and a look forward at 2009, let’s remember that God really does work all things for our good. Let’s praise Him for His faithfulness in keeping this promise!
GOING DEEPER:
1. What trails have you faced in your life? Take some time to count the blessings that have resulted from these adversities.
2. If you are in the midst of a trial, use this time to cling to God…or when you can’t even muster that, ask Him to hold you in His hand. Allow Him to minister in your suffering and in His mercy.
FURTHER READING:
Romans 11:2; 1 Corinthians 1:9; Eph 1:11
Shelly is wife to Nick and mom to her two girls. She spends her time freelancing as a writer/PR professional, and is active in Oakwood's worship and drama ministries.
