What to Expect When the Unexpected Happens

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:7, ESV).

Have you ever been blindsided? Has something happened that you just did not see coming?

I’m convinced the peace that transcends understanding comes to us in situations beyond our comprehension. It asserts itself in times and places where the unexpected, unheralded and unwelcome meet us. This peace fills the gap between the frailty of life and the stability of heaven.

It is in this space that God’s peace guards both heart and mind. It hides us in Christ Jesus from the attacks of what might have been.

Recently some things took me by surprise. While I was yet reeling, I heard a scornful whisper: “All might have been different if you would have done this … ”

Jesus whispered, “Peace.”

Later, doubt returned. “You should have seen this coming,” it said.

But again, I heard the echo: “Peace.”

It came once more with regret: “It could have been different.”

But Jesus responded, “Quiet. Let My peace overlay all that you do not understand, My child.”

Even though all of the above and possibly more accusations may have at one time been true, they are no longer plausible. This means they should not have space in my present.

I would have, I should have and I could have are no match for I will, I shall, and I can.

Philippians 4:5-6 tells us, “The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God.”

When you are caught off-guard, determine: I will not be anxious. I shall pray in faith with a thankful heart because I can leave this with Jesus.

Then expect His peace; He is as near as a whisper.

Adapted from Out of Control and Loving It! Lisa Bevere is a best-selling author of Fight Like a Girl, Kissed the Girls and Made them Cry, Out of Control and Loving It! and Be Angry and Don’t Blow It! In addition to speaking at national and international conferences, she is a frequent guest on Christian television and radio shows. She and her husband, best-selling author John Bevere, make their home in Colorado.