Nevertheless

Nº 306

June 11, 2024

We must learn to live on the heavenly side and look at things from above. To contemplate all things as God sees them...overcomes sin, defies Satan, dissolves perplexities, lifts us above trials, separates us from the world and conquers fear of death. - C.S. Lewis

The most under-appreciated word in the Christian glossary is, nevertheless.

Life can be hard. Sure, there are good days when the sun shines and the birds sing; however, there are many days dominated by clouds and thunderstorms. Sometimes we want to stay in bed and hope our problems go away. Sometimes we try to pretend that all is well. . . when it’s not. Sometimes we think it’s ungodly to feel bad, wishing our circumstances were different.

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus anguished over His circumstances. He did not want to be betrayed, arrested, wrongly accused, beaten, mocked, abandoned, and killed. He prayed fervently for a change of plans.

But eventually He said, nevertheless.

We all need a nevertheless moment. We need a point when we say, I do not want these circumstances – nevertheless. I know you are a loving, wise, gracious, and powerful God who is in control.

An honest response to difficult circumstances is always appropriate as long as it ends with, nevertheless. Remember, God is greater than the pain we endure and the evil we face. Pour out your heart, trust God, and like Jesus, pray, “Nevertheless, not my will but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries