spiritual struggles
Salvation in Times of Crisis
As a 10-year-old my world was turned upside down by the death of my father. Many confusing questions ran through my mind — and I wanted answers. Where did my father go? How could God allow this to happen to me? For the first time in my life, I sensed my own mortality. I, too, was going to die one day. Was I ready?
Today I continue to be reminded of the pain and confusion that the death of a loved one brings. Not only have I lost several family members and friends to death, but as a Family Nurse Practitioner I face it daily as I care for sick and dying patients. Too frequently I see in my patients and colleagues emotions similar to those I had as a confused and hopeless child.
One of the lessons from the terrorist attacks of 2001 is the need to be equipped to reach out to those around me. It's something I put into practice when one of the owners of the medical practice where I work was killed. His life ended violently, resulting in a free fall of emotions, questions and pain for his loved ones and co-workers. How could I, as a Christian woman and medical professional, provide answers to my patients and friends in a way that would address their sorrow and guilt? By sending them to the Source of life.
Never forsaken
Many people don't think about God until tragedy strikes. Then they blame Him and get angry, wondering how He could abandon them in their hour of need.
Scripture, however, tells us that God is with us in every situation. In Isaiah 43:2 God promises His people that He will be with them when they pass through the waters and the fire. He also says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Joshua 1:5).
I am reminded in these verses that we can trust God for help and protection. He strengthens us when we are in need. God is more than some far-off deity; He is a personal God who wants to be an integral part of our lives.
At the same time, suffering, loss and pain are inescapable; even Jesus suffered great pain when He died on the cross. Despite the circumstances, God always provides and cares for His people.
Following the death of my father, I had to face some tough realities. I was empty, had no hope and struggled with feelings of guilt.
Then I picked up the Bible, where I found truth and freedom. The words were neither sugarcoated nor meaningless phrases of false hope. They made me realize I needed a God bigger than me. When I handed my life over to Christ, a huge burden was lifted from my shoulders.
Never forget
In the aftermath of 9-11, the media bombarded us with horrifying images of death and destruction. Emotions were raw, and the subject of death was on the minds of many Americans.
I can't help but wonder whether, in time, we'll be allowed to forget. Will the images and emotions slide away to the recesses of our minds?
Calamity may come when we are not looking or prepared for it. When tragedy strikes, we can turn to Scripture. Most people have a Bible tucked away on a bookshelf even if they haven't looked at it in years.
God's Word holds the answers to our soul questions and the opportunity to discover a personal Savior.
Background Information
If I had Faked the Resurrection
Only a Master-Planner would have arranged such a perfect series of events.
Jesus: Liar, Lunatic or Lord?
How could one man turn the world upside down?
Questions and Answers
If God is a powerful and loving Father, why doesn't He do something about the mess on earth?
Answer
How can anyone watch the evening news and seriously say that the universe is run by a loving Father?
Answer
How could Jesus Christ die for everyone's sins? Isn't every person responsible for his own sins?
Answer
Just what is sin? Who decides what is or isn't sin?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
A Relentless Pursuit
At the time I became Christ's, my life was consumed by feminist politics and the gay and lesbian community.
Spend It Any Way You Like
Sometimes, the meaning of life is found in the most surprising places.
The Cross: What It Isn't, What It Is
Does Christ's cross have any power to help you?
The Perfect Family
In a world where even the best of families have problems, can there really be a "perfect family"?
Related Topics
Transitions: Changing Jobs, Moving
Relationships: Communication Gaps
Parenting Teens: Communication Problems
