Prepare for landing: uncovering lessons from the turbulence

Things around me have been rocky lately. I have felt unsure of where I am being called. My anxiety has been great. My world is changing and the unknown is unsettling. But one thing rings clear: God is preparing me for something. Something big is coming and I don’t get to know what it is or why, but I know He has led me here.

I currently am sitting on a flight home after a wonderful week in Austin/Corpus Christi. A few minutes ago, the plane hit terrible turbulence and the cabin shook fiercely. In that moment, I thought about myself and the passengers around me enjoying their electronics. What would happen if there really was an issue? Did we pay enough attention to the safety instructions? Were the pilots and flight attendants capable of handling and helping everyone? Then, as the cabin jolted once more, I heard a resounding voice say clearly, “I have prepared you.” I knew instantly that God was sharing this tidbit for another portion of my life, as I hadn’t a clue what to do if the plane experienced real issues. Yet, the rockiness of the plane matched the rockiness of my life. He has been preparing me for the next major jolt or unexpected change.

God has been preparing me these last six months. He has been teaching me little lessons every single day. He has already opened my eyes to so many different paths and ways of life that can be used to honor Him. He’s helped me to overcome small challenges to become more resilient. He’s helped me let go of some control to become more of his servant. He has prepared me. I don’t know what is next, but I am ready for whatever battle or new challenge He puts in front of me. He has prepared me for exactly this. He knows I can’t handle it on my own, but with Him and trust I will be ok and find my way to joy.

Have you been going through turbulence lately? Have you felt a few unexpected jolts that have shaken things up? Do you feel something big coming? Are you prepared? I invite you to pray over the unknown and reflect on all God has taught you leading up to this. Do any patterns present? Can you see the path? The destination?

Though you may not be sure of the final destination, He has prepared you. I invite you to release any fear. I invite you to cling to Him. I invite you to surrender the control to direct your own steps. The Lord of the Universe has a big plan for your life. You will be ready for whatever He has prepared if you only lay down your own plans and trust Him to lead.

“My child, when you come to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for trials. Be sincere of heart and steadfast, and do not be impetuous in time of adversity. Cling to him, do not leave him, that you may prosper in your last days. Accept whatever happens to you; in periods of humiliation be patient. For in fire gold is tested, and the chosen, in the crucible of humiliation. Trust in God, and he will help you; make your ways straight and hope in him.” — Sirach 2:1-6