ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE

God works out all things for our good. This does not mean all that happens to us is good. We live in a fallen world, but God is with us and God is working His will in our lives.

The MC had already introduced the singer who was about to walk onstage. Due to a malfunction, the mechanical curtain separating the bandstand from the stage was not opening. Microphone in hand, the singer opted not to walk onstage from a lighted area stage right. She was, instead, determined to make a grand entrance center-stage. Stepping through the darkened bandstand area, she made her way through the narrow curtain opening which led down to the stage. She will never forget the moment when the heel of her shoe hit the edge of the raised platform causing her to lose her balance. In an instant, she fell to the stage below. The spotlight was on her, but not as she had hoped. Instead of a display of grace and professionalism, she was lying flat on the floor and wriggling to get to her feet.

Fortunately, she chose not to dwell on this moment as a negative, humiliating experience. Instead, she praised the Lord and gave God the glory for His divine protection - Hallelujah - no bones were broken! She truly saw God's hand of Grace in what had transpired; and, her humble response opened a door of opportunity to share the Gospel with those who had witnessed the incident.

God will allow trials and tests. In spite of any difficulty we must not forget God's love for us, and remember that He is in control and has a plan which He is working out for our own eternal good … according to His purpose!