I recently renewed my passport. It had expired, and my name had changed since the last time I used it. As I flipped through its pages, I was surprised by the flood of memories – trips taken with my ex-husband, moments filled with laughter and shared dreams. Back then, I imagined a lifetime of adventures together. Divorce wasn’t part of the plan. But life doesn’t always follow our plans, does it?
You may not have experienced divorce, but maybe you’ve endured your own heartbreak. The unexpected loss of a loved one. A diagnosis that shook your world. A job layoff. Financial devastation. Whatever your story, chances are it came without warning and without your consent. And like me, you may have asked, “God, where are You?”
You’re not alone in that question.
Job lost everything: his wealth, his health, his children. Naomi buried her husband and both sons, returning home bitter and broken. Joseph was betrayed, enslaved, and imprisoned. Yet, in each of their stories, God was silently weaving redemption into the sorrow. Though their circumstances said otherwise, they were never abandoned.
Neither are you.
Hebrews 13:5 (NIV) promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Those aren’t just comforting words, they are covenant words. God doesn’t walk away when life goes wrong. He draws near. Even when we can’t trace His hand, we can trust His heart.
The enemy would love for you to believe that your pain proves God’s absence. But remember – Satan is the father of lies. His mission is always to kill your hope, steal your joy, and destroy your faith. Don’t believe him. Instead, anchor yourself in truth: Nothing can separate you from the love of Christ. If God is for you, who can be against you? You are more than a conqueror. (See Romans 8)
God wastes nothing, not even the worst chapters of our lives. Romans 8:28 (NIV) reminds us that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” That means even when life goes terribly wrong, God is still up to something good.
So, if you’re walking through a season that feels unfamiliar, unfair, or unbearably painful, lift your eyes. The God who walked with Job, comforted Naomi, and elevated Joseph is walking with you, too. His presence hasn’t left, and His promises still stand.
Your story isn’t over.
About the Author:
Joyce Averils is a Christian Life Purpose and Empowerment Coach who helps women rediscover their identity in Christ and walk boldly in their God-given calling. A retired judge and Bible teacher, she weaves truth and encouragement to help others rise from life’s unexpected detours with purpose, faith, and joy.
Connect with Joyce:
https://www.instagram.com/herrichlife/
