Puzzle Piece

What do you do when you feel lost? One could answer that question multiple ways. If we were physically lost, we’d probably consult a map, ask directions, or wander until we find something familiar. However, if we felt emotionally or spiritually lost, would we not do the same thing? Many turn to Scripture. Some would ask for help. And then there are those who would wander around until they found a path that looked familiar to them. Life can often feel this way. Constantly wondering if things will change, get better, or end up differently. All the while, God is working out His plan for the world. As believers, we’re a part of that plan. We fit into it just as perfectly as the last puzzle piece fits in to complete the picture. Too often, we find ourselves in the weeds of the issue that we can’t always see the big picture until we step back and look at it in its entirety. The Good News today, God is always looking at the big picture and how each piece fits into the grand design.

Time and again God has shown His sovereignty of His redemptive plan for the world. After the resurrection, many disciples went out to share the gospel. However, there was a man named Saul who was bent on putting an end to the movement of Jesus’ followers. God had other plans for this Pharisee of Pharisees. On the road to Damascus, Saul encountered the living Jesus, blinded him, and changed the course of his life. God then sent Ananias to come and bring Saul further on this new path. Ananias responded to God’s call saying, “Lord, I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel (Acts 9:13-15 NIV).

There was work happening here under the surface. God was working out His plan through Saul (who would now be known as Paul). Paul went on to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ further than anyone before Him. Paul had no idea that this was the path his life would take. But God did. And He was working out that plan well before Paul got to that road. And so it is for every believer. We may feel lost, confused, angry, or even discouraged. The roads may be long and we may be wandering feeling like we belong to a different puzzle altogether. However, it was Jesus who said in this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world (John 16:33 NIV).

Take heart, dear reader, God knows exactly the place where your piece fits into the puzzle!