June 23
Trusting God
Through Life’s Shocks
“We are pushed hard from all sides. But we are not beaten down. We are bewildered, but that doesn’t make us lose hope. Others make us suffer, but God does not desert us. We are knocked down, but we are not destroyed.”
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NIrV)
Gabriella had never considered her small rental house to be just a place to live. It was her sanctuary. The walls were lined with books she had collected over the years, and every corner held memories of quiet evenings with tea and her cat, Luna, curled up beside her.
When she got home that evening, her usual calm routine was interrupted. She picked up the mail from the small slot near the door, shuffling through the envelopes absentmindedly. Bills, advertisements, and then—something unfamiliar. A letter from her landlord.
Curious, she tore it open, but the words inside felt like a gut punch:
“Dear Ms. Ramirez, We regret to inform you that we plan to sell the property. Please vacate the premises within 30 days.”
Her heart raced as she sat down on the couch, the letter trembling in her hand. “How can this be happening?” she whispered to no one in particular. Gabriella had built her life here. She was settled. Comfortable. The thought of packing up her belongings and starting over felt like being thrown into a storm with no shelter.
That night, she barely slept. Every possible scenario ran through her mind—where would she go? Would she even find another place she could afford? What would happen to Luna?
By morning, Gabriella was exhausted, overwhelmed, and still without a plan. As she poured her coffee, her eyes landed on the Bible her grandmother had given her years ago. It was dusty, untouched in months, but something inside her urged her to open it.
Flipping aimlessly, her gaze fell on 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. She read the words aloud: “We are pushed hard from all sides. But we are not beaten down. We are bewildered, but that doesn’t make us lose hope. Others make us suffer, but God does not desert us. We are knocked down, but we are not destroyed.”
She read it again. And again.
Tears began to spill as she realized she didn’t have to carry this burden alone. God hadn’t abandoned her. The thought didn’t solve her problem immediately, but it planted a seed of hope in her heart.
That day at work, Gabriella decided to share her situation with her coworker, Maria. To her surprise, Maria offered to help. “I know someone who’s renting out a place nearby,” Maria said. “It’s not huge, but it’s nice—and they’re looking for a tenant quickly.”
Gabriella visited the apartment that evening. It wasn’t her house, but it had its own charm—bright windows, a cozy kitchen, and enough space for Luna to roam. The landlord was kind and understanding, offering her a move-in deal she could manage.
As she signed the lease a few days later, Gabriella reflected on the verse she had read. She had been pushed and bewildered, but God had not let her be destroyed.
Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your constant presence, even in the storms of life.
When we feel overwhelmed, remind us that we are not abandoned.
Just like You guided Gabriella, guide us to trust You in the unknown.
Help us to find peace, knowing that You hold our future in Your hands.
Lord, give us strength to move forward, faith to lean on You, and hope for what lies ahead.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
