Finding God’s Grace in Chaos and Hard Times

Life in the Midst of Storms

Life can be difficult. Juggling work, family, household chores and trying to make time for leisure. We can easily fall behind, especially when our obligations grow. Sometimes, we can fall behind at work, cleaning the house, laundry, with our kids obligations and sleep. Personally, I have experienced chaos many times. We were blessed with three kids. As they grew, so did our obligations. We wanted to give them a good life. Then my husband lost his job. Right after we registered two kids for private school. We saw God in that chaos.

When my husband finally settled into what seemed to be his dream job, he had issues that led to a back surgery. That surgery did not end well and he lost that job.  Then he got a new job in another state. Once again, he hurt his back and needed another surgery. Unable to work, it took two years and a lawyer to get disability. We almost lost everything! We just about got caught up and got things under control when I lost my job at the church. That meant no unemployment. I was the main financial support for our family. Now, we did not know what would happen!

Where is God’s Grace when life feels like it’s falling apart?

God is there. He is always there. It is up to us to find Him. To hold on to him. To let Him guide us with His Grace.

Understanding Grace in Difficult Seasons

God’s Grace is unearned, constant and present in every circumstance. This is not something you ask for, it is just there, freely given to you. God’s Grace sustains you and empowers you. His Grace alone is enough just like Chris Tomlin sings in, “Your Grace is Enough.”

In difficult seasons it provides a new perspective. It can bring peace and hope as we build our trust in God to get us through. Grace does not rescue us, but instead offers us strength for endurance to get us through any situation.  When experiencing a difficult season, pray with 2 Corinthians 12:9: but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me.(usccb.org)

Recognizing Grace in Everyday Chaos

Do you know how to recognize God’s Grace?  It can often appear in small ways such as a kind word, a moment of peace, or unexpected strength. One of the times I really felt God’s Grace was when my husband lost his job when the economy was bad and we had two kids enrolled in Catholic School. Our church community was there for us. It was easy to accept help and gifts for our children, but it felt very awkward when someone wanted to bless me. I was told I could be a blessing to others by allowing them to bless me. I have repeated that advice to many people. God’s Grace moves through us when we help others. It is also present in our humility when we allow others to help us.  

Take time to reflect on where Grace may already be showing up unnoticed. Think about times that were difficult. Can you recognize how God’s Grace showed up in your life?  Keeping a Grace journal to document glimpses of God’s presence in your life will help you to see patterns and to create habits of gratitude. Allow yourself to feel peace and hope knowing that God is there for you..

 Seeing, Seeking and Embracing Grace in Hard Times

In the stories I shared above, God’s Grace was evident in every difficult season. The problems didn’t disappear, but did transform each of us as we found our way through it. I know for me, when I was deep in self pity and the “why me” stage, I was unable to clearly see and feel God’s presence. Onlyoury after reflection could I more easily see and appreciate God’s Grace. 

I invite you to see your own experiences in a new light. Build some practical spiritual habits such as a digital detox, prayer, Scripture meditation, community support and worship. Remember that seeking God doesn’t mean perfection. It means being present and open, crying out for God as in Psalm 34:18, “The righteous cry out, the LORD hears and he rescues them from all their afflictions.”(usccb.org)

Encouragement for the Weary

Know that Grace doesn’t run out. God hasn’t forgotten you. Spiritual growth often comes in the hardest seasons. When you are feeling doubt about your worth, remember whose you are. God created you. He created you for a purpose. Life is a journey. Live it and grow with it.
 

Here are some statements to pray and meditate with:

• “God’s grace doesn’t always calm the storm—sometimes it holds us steady through it.”
• “In the wreckage of what we thought life would be, grace shows up uninvited but right on time.”
• “Even when life feels loud and heavy, grace speaks in quiet, steady ways.”
• “You may not feel strong today, but grace is strong enough to carry you.”
• “God’s grace meets us where we are—not where we pretend to be.”
• “The presence of pain does not mean the absence of grace.”
• “When everything else is uncertain, grace reminds us we are still held.”

Grace Is Closer Than You Think

 God’s Grace is not absent in chaos. It’s often the most active there. You need to be open and present to receive it. Watch for it. Focus on God’s Word. Spend time reading the Bible and listening to God. Practice gratitude, focusing on the good in everyday life, no matter how small. Celebrate your victories, giving the glory to God.

Let’s pray:

“God, we love you and are grateful for you. We are grateful for the blessings you have bestowed upon us, and the blessings yet to come. We ask that you open our eyes, mind and heart to recognize Your Grace as it is present in our lives. Amen”  ~Michele Gunn

How and when  have you witnessed God’s Grace?