In the Midst of Loss, Part 1 | Northlands Church

In the Midst of Loss, Part 1

October 26, 2015 | Terry Mitchell

In the Midst of Loss, Part 1

by: Terry Mitchell

When we face losses, it’s easy to focus on our pain and anxiety. But that’s the time to focus on God. He isn’t done yet!

Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, Yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights. Habakkak 3:17-19

We all experience losses in life. We lose possessions, income, relationships. Sometimes the losses are small, and we feel the irritation and frustration the loss brings. At other times the losses are huge, and we find ourselves at the doors of despair and hopelessness. Common though, to each of us, we tend to fixate on our losses and get caught up in the accompanying pain and anxiety.

The description of loss that the prophet Habakkuk offers above is one of near utter devastation. When put in our 21st century context, his words point to a loss of job, income, savings, retirement, food, and future provision coming about in a single overwhelming moment. The loss is in fact so large that it looks as though it comes out of a war zone. The future that Habakkuk ponders is bleak at best. Still, after acknowledging the loss and its magnitude, he doesn’t fixate on the loss. Instead, he turns to the One who can change his circumstances. “I see what’s happened,” he says. “And yet…!”

For Reflection:

What usually happens to you when you face losses?

What would you like God to do for you in the midst of your losses?

Prayer

Lord, let me not be overwhelmed by the losses that I see daily. Rather let me find my joy and strength in You.

© 2024 Northlands Church and Terry Mitchell. Permission to share so long as credit is given.