Unexpected Delays

It's the little frustrations that can get under my skin and really test my patience. You know, those seemingly minor annoyances that accumulate and create a ripple effect in our day. An unexpected traffic delay, a cross word spoken in haste, plans that do not unfold as I had envisioned, or unmet expectations that linger in the back of my mind can all contribute to a growing sense of irritation.

Recently, my husband and I experienced one such frustration that, while not catastrophic, certainly disrupted our day. Our car broke down, leaving us stranded for a few hours on a day when we had other plans. Instead, we found ourselves grappling with car issues that demanded our attention and energy.

As we waited for assistance, I couldn't help but reflect on how such a minor inconvenience could derail my plans. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how easily our expectations can be hindered by circumstances beyond our control. In that moment, I had to remind myself to take a step back and breathe deeply. After all, it was just a temporary setback, and we were safe.

In the grand scheme of life, these little frustrations are indeed trivial! It is just hard to remember that in the moment when everything seems to be going awry. The unexpected delays and setbacks can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to maintain a positive perspective.

But sometimes, I wonder if these delays are more about God's protection from what could have happened down the road. They may serve as a gentle reminder that not everything is within our control, and that a greater plan is at work that we may not fully understand. Or maybe these interruptions are opportunities to exercise patience and resilience, virtues that are often put to the test in our daily lives.

Sometimes, these inconveniences present themselves as gospel opportunities, allowing us to share a moment of connection with the tow truck driver or others we encounter along the way.

So, while my afternoon looked a little different than what I had envisioned, it was still a good afternoon. Life is not just about the destination but also about the journey itself. Each experience, no matter how trivial it may seem, contributes to the tapestry of our lives, weaving together lessons learned and connections made.

So, I choose to embrace the unexpected, knowing that some detours are part of the journey. "But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in Your hand." Psalm 31: 14 -15a (NKJV)

"But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; ' say, 'You are my God.' My times are in Your hand." Psalm 31: 14 -15a (NKJV)