I’ve learned that when life changes your script, all you really need to do is hold on tighter to God.
Have you ever watched a movie disappointed with how it ended because it didn’t match what you thought it would be?
Well, that happens to me a lot. But in my life.
My dad wasn’t supposed to pass away while I was on my honeymoon, but he did.
I wasn’t supposed to be locked in without a job, a driving permit, or my friends and community in a different country while I was going through the immigration process, but I did.
My body wasn’t supposed to have an autoimmune disease that gives me stomach issues and makes it hard to eat, but it does.
There have been so many things and moments in my life that wouldn’t be the way I would write them to be. In fact, if I was able to have control of everything, it wouldn’t be bad at all! Right?
I love being the author of my own story. And it feels frustrating when something doesn’t turn out the way I expected it to. I’ve felt sadness, despair, and anger, but somehow God has met me in in all of them.
The things you learn when life changes your script
Life has brought so many challenges that I never expected. I’ve learned valuable lessons from some of them. And sometimes, I’ve just learned how much I need God.
In the middle of the unexpected, I’ve also learned the importance of:
Embracing the unpredictability of life
No matter how meticulously we plan, unforeseen events can alter the course of our lives. And when such things happen, we can either feel frustrated and bitter about it, or we can let go of control, and trust God with our lives.
Staying Resilient in the Face of Change
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, learn from experiences, and emerge stronger. When life disrupts our carefully crafted plans, it's essential to embrace change with an open mind and a Bible in our hands. Resisting the inevitable only leads to frustration and stress. Instead, approaching the new script with resilience and God’s help allows us to find opportunities for growth and development.
Redefining Joy
I used to think that having joy was all about getting everything I wanted. But honestly, I’ve learned that true joy only comes from being with God. And perhaps the detour in our plans might also lead us to discover passions and pursuits we hadn't considered before.
Connecting with Others
I can’t even begin to tell you about the difference it has made having friends and family with me through my life’s hardships. Navigating unexpected changes was never meant to be a solo journey. Connecting with others can provide the emotional support and encouragement that we need, and remind us that we are not alone in our struggles.
Having a grateful heart
There have been things that have changed my life script in an unfortunate way. But not all of the changes have been bad.
In my script…
I wasn’t supposed to marry a foreigner and move to his country. Or find a job in a Christian marketing company, with people not only who share the same vision about building God’s kingdom, but that also have become like a family to me.
But I did. And I feel incredibly grateful for those and other gifts God has given me in the middle of adversity.
Expressing gratitude for the blessings in our lives transforms our outlook, allowing us to embrace joy with the understanding that life is not confined to stark black and white, but rather a vibrant spectrum of colors.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:18
When life changes your script you have the opportunity to surrender your plans, rest in God’s goodness, and adapt to your new circumstances. As you do so, remember that the beauty of the narrative lies not just in its planned chapters but also in the unexpected plot twists that make your story uniquely yours.
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