Finding Grace by Tina Y. Gerber-McCurley

How does one find grace in the face of adversity? I feel it’s an ongoing learning process we can improve at, regardless of age! Perhaps, I should start at the beginning. On Mother’s Day, I hurt my back, which was debilitating. I couldn’t sit, stand, or lay down for more than 20-minute intervals. Every day, my pain increased, as well as my crying and vocal complaints to my husband. My pain seemed unbearable and debilitating. I found no relief after visiting the ER and my doctor. Yet, I felt selfish and rude, asking for continual prayers from everyone I knew. My heart reminded me always to enjoy the small pleasures of life, such as brushing my teeth, a warm bed, and a family who loves and cares about me. Yes, I woke up every day and tried to recognize and appreciate the small things, knowing I had the chance to begin each morning anew. Life is about those little things, those things which help define us. However, my pain made me angry and annoyed; and to add insult to injury, I had a blocked tear duct and couldn’t read, write or work on my computer. Why now, my first full summer of retirement? I had planned to complete outside tasks, finish all my projects, and attempt to finish our kitchen renovations. The list goes on and on. Scripture says: you make your plans, but God directs your steps! I prayed daily, knowing a temper tantrum or feeling angry would spike my blood pressure and increase stress, without changing the situation or easing my pain. I attempted to be calm but failed miserably. It’s a good thing my husband loves me and is forgiving. Instead of pounding my fists and constantly crying, I decided I would wait with patience, for peace and joy to surround me. I understand the Bible says, in Romans 8:28 “We know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves him.” CEV and when adversity comes, we are still required to face our problems and pressures. When they are too big for us to resolve, we need to turn to God. God gets our attention, not by the pain but by being available in it, and the gospel of Jesus Christ provides healing and hope. I am now on the road to recovery. It turns out, we can embrace grace in the face of adversity so it can enable us to remain graceful in spite of life’s challenges, hardships, and setbacks. The greatest grace we have been given is, God purchased our freedom with the blood of His son and forgave all our sins. This provides the ultimate deliverance from pain. This immeasurable gift was given to me because I believe. I didn’t work for it and certainly didn’t deserve it. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

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