The day I drove to my husband’s arraignment for sexual abuse against my daughter (his step-daughter), my situation began to sink in. It was mortifying to see him in that felony orange jumpsuit. A waking nightmare had descended upon our lives.
Like any parent, God wants the best for us, but our finite minds struggle to understand how a crisis could possibly be good. Denial is refusal to acknowledge there is a battle raging, so consequently you also are not fighting the battle spiritually, mentally or emotionally. Acceptance of a situation isn’t giving up; it’s choosing to enter the ring and fight.
In acceptance, our first step is to trust God. “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28, NLT).
Next, tap into God’s grace. “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NLT). Author and speaker Joyce Meyer explains grace this way: “Grace is the power of God available to meet our needs without any cost to us. It is received by believing, rather than through human effort” (from If Not for the Grace of God by Joyce Meyer). To receive God’s power, simply ask for him to provide it. “You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father” (John 14:13, NLT).
As you accept your situation, here are some practical suggestions to help.
• Enlist prayer partners who will support you regularly in prayer.
• When you’re preparing dinner, fix double and freeze half. On those days when you don’t have the energy to cook, you’ll have meals in the freezer you can pull out and use.
• Laugh. There are physically healing benefits in laughter. (See the post dated 1/8.)
• Ask for help from your support network (family, friends who are willing to help)—babysitting, cleaning, laundry, cooking meals, whatever you need.
• Find a support group (online or otherwise) you can attend. Others have dealt with what you are dealing with right now and can help.
• Take care of yourself physically, emotionally and mentally. Stress compromises your immune system making you more susceptible to illness.
• Get at least 8 hours of sleep every night; rest allows your body to reenergize.
Our God is an awesome God. ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE for him to do. He will give you the strength and guidance you need.
Debra L. Butterfield © 2010
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