It Just So Happened

It just so happened that my father died within hours of my birth. I was the ninth child. My mother was 45 and really didn’t want me. Her concept of religion was warped and oppressive. So my younger years were spent alone…reading and thinking.

Where was God in all of this?

It just so happened that my marriage was arranged when I was 15 years old. My solitude training came in good stead, as I never left my home. Within five years I had three children to care for. My rigid religious teaching spilled over onto them.

Where was God in all of this?

It just so happened that he left me. My solitude training kicked in. My love of reading led to a study of the Bible that told me things my church had never mentioned…like the love of God. I corrected my behavior toward my children.

Where was God in all of this?

It just so happened that I became a confident, strong woman with a deep-rooted love for God. My home was no longer a cave for me to hide in, but a gathering place for the teenagers that were now a part of my life. I learned to say “yes” to God, even though my heart was pounding at what He asked me to do.

Where was God in all of this?

It just so happened my “yes” answer led me to a church not of my choosing, on a Saturday morning…having volunteered to help them start a singles group. In jogged a sweaty, scantily clad man who sat down beside me. Mentally I scooted over. Men were new in my life, especially ones wearing shorts and a tank top.

Where was God in all of this?

It just so happened that man became my beloved husband of almost 35 years. Nothing…absolutely nothing…that just so happened in my life was by chance. I can look back and see His hand in everything.

So even though you may be wondering where God is in your life, I can tell you He is right there with you…walking beside you…caring.

“… lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20b (ASV)