Hindsight is 20/20 - Encouragement Café - December 30, 2016

Hindsight is 20/20
By Beth Mabe Gianopulos
Friday, December 30, 2016

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, whohave been called according to his purpose.  Romans 8:28 NIV

When I was pregnant with my first child, I was determined to have the best possible pregnancy.  I gave up caffeine, walked for exercise, and did everything within my power to ensure that I had a healthy baby.

When I was just 24 weeks pregnant, I was in a small town arguing in my first jury trial.  The final morning of the trial, I woke up and knew something was terribly wrong - I was bleeding. 

When I was stabilized at the hospital, I learned that I had a rare condition, a placental abruption.  This was life threatening for me and my baby.  I was in the hospital for twelve weeks on bedrest.  I had 23 ultrasounds, daily monitoring, and constant medical oversight.  I wondered every day if my baby would live and be healthy. 

While other friends were planning baby showers and discussing their birth plans, I was praying for my child’s life. 

That year was filled with disappointment, fear, anxiety, and depression.  The only thing I could do for my child was lie in bed and pray.  I wondered why God would let this happen to me when I tried so hard to be perfect.   

During those moments in that hospital bed, I could not feel the hope of Romans 8:28,

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.  NIV

I could not fathom how any of this would work to my good or for the good of my unborn child. 

However, 12 weeks later, a miracle baby was born - my son was healthy and perfect.  As I held a living miracle, I could finally see the work that God had done in me. 

During those 12 weeks in the hospital, I learned to rely completely on God.  My prayers were often just one or two word pleas, but I knew that only God could save my baby.  I learned that I was not in control.  I learned the value and precious beauty of health and life.              

It is often said that hindsight is 20/20 because it is only after we have moved through the fear, anxiety and pain that we can look back with clarity to see God’s hand upon us.  If you are in the pain, cling to the promise that God will work all things for the good.      

When we are in the midst of a crisis or trial, it is hard to hold onto hope.  Often, it is only when we are able to view the event through the 20/20 lenses of hindsight that we are able to see that God was with us, holding us, and guiding us all along. 

If you are in a trial now, hold onto that promise.  Hold onto the hope that God will find a way to work the most desperate of circumstances for good.    

Jesus, Thank You for Your promises.  Thank You for taking the impossible trials that we face and using them for our good.  While we are in the heartache, remind us of Your promises and renew our hope.   In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

© 2016 by Beth Mabe Gianopulos.  All rights reserved.

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