Dr. Lawrence Butler

The Bridge Church, Pembroke

Lesson 7: Chap. 2:10-14 

There are many people who had difficult times during their childhood. Often this was the result of parents who failed in their marital or parental responsibilities. Difficulties with health marred the youth of many and the struggle continued their whole lives. Fortunately for me none of these issues ruined my childhood. Most of my young life I was happy and somewhat carefree. However, there was that one day!

As kids we rode bicycles, roller- skated, played baseball and went to church. Since my dad was a pastor, there was a lot of church. We were taught manners, respect for adults, and obedience. Growing up in a time and place of relative innocence did not prepare me for what was about to happen. My younger sister disappeared!

It was an afternoon that I have never forgotten. There was a certain frenzy that took hold of our home. She’s gone.

Where is she? No one could answer that question. Family and friends went ballistic searching for her. I do not remember if the police were involved yet, but I do remember seeing my mother sitting in a chair in the living room with her head in her hands, probably praying and crying. She understood what I did not about missing girls and what could happen to them.

Frantically I ran the neighborhood looking for my sister, to no avail. As time passed the nerves became raw and fear gripped hearts. Suddenly and amazingly she was found! She was unharmed and had wandered away on her own without being kidnapped. Fear left, and we were whole again.

Life is filled with sudden and unexpected events. Fear grips our hearts and brings the most awful expectations. There are times when the worst does occur, but there are so many other times when things work out ok.

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3). Trusting in the Lord is the way to peace. Even when things are really bad for you, knowing the Lord is with you will provide the necessary strength to get through it. We understand that life as we know it today cannot continue. This is why our Lord died for us and provided a plan for eternal life.

Have you tried trusting Jesus with all of your heart and mind?

It works.