The "But God" Moments: A Testament to His Power and Faithfulness
Life often feels like a storm—chaotic, overwhelming, and seemingly unending. Just as the disciples faced the raging seas and witnessed Jesus still the storm with a word, many of us have experienced moments of despair that seemed impossible to overcome. Yet, in those moments, we’ve also encountered profound revelations of God’s power, faithfulness, and presence.
The Revelation in the Storm
The disciples, who were afraid of the storm, were astonished when Jesus rebuked the wind and the waves. They said, "Even the wind and the waves obey Him!" It was a revelation of Christ's authority that changed their minds. Equally, many of us after undergoing some trials stand firmer and with much insight into the nature of God. Often in the tumult of life, we come to know Him in ways we never thought.
The Turning Point: But God
In our darkest moments, when solutions seem non-existent when we’ve tried everything and still see no way forward, it’s vital to remember two life-changing words: But God. These words signify hope, transformation, and divine intervention.
Hopelessness transforms into hope: Remember the "But God" moments in Scripture and your own life. Reflect on how God made a way when there seemed to be no way.
Impossibilities are made possible: The world may say, "It can't be done," but God says, "It can."
Defeat is made victory: What the enemy purposed for evil, God repurposed for good.
Testimonies of But God in the Bible
The Bible is replete with "But God" moments that altered the course of events.
Noah's Deliverance:
Noah must have wondered, as he was in the ark with his family and a host of animals for more than a year if the rain would ever stop. Yet, we are informed in Genesis 8:1, "But God remembered Noah..." So, too, no matter how forgotten and isolated we may feel, God remembers us. He does not abandon His people.
Joseph's Redemption:
Sold into slavery, falsely accused, and put in prison, Joseph was the recipient of incredible trials. Yet he says to his brothers in Genesis 50:20, "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good." What seemed an unending series of setbacks was part of God's larger scheme, that is the salvation of nations and families.
Paul's Assurance:
In Acts 7:9, where it is recounting Joseph's story, it says, "But God was with him." The same assurance is ours. No matter how dark or troubling our circumstances, God is with us.
Lessons from "But God" Moments
These moments teach us profound truths:
God can be trusted to bring good out of the worst of circumstances.
His plans are greater than what we can see in our current trials.
He is always working, even when we cannot see it.
God's perspective is eternal: While we are fixed on the immediate pain of the situation, God sees the big picture and works all things together for good (Romans 8:28).
We do not walk alone: Even in those darkest of times, God's presence is sure and steadfast. As with Joseph, we can be assured that "God is with us."
Personal Reflections of "But God" Moments
Stop for a minute and reflect on your life. Can you look back and remember those specific times when there was no way forward, and then God stepped in? Maybe it was financial provision when there was no hope, healing when the doctors did not have an answer, or peace in the middle of emotional turmoil. These are not coincidences-they are testimonies of His grace and power.
Consider the most monumental "But God" moment in all of history:
As Ephesians 2:4-5 says, "But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ." Here is the greatest pivot point in history - the action of God's love and mercy turning death to life.
Encouragement for Today
If you're in a dark place today, let this be a reminder:
But God is making a way: What seems impossible for you is possible for Him.
But God is with you: You are not forgotten. He sees, remembers, and walks with you.
But God has the final word: Authorities, circumstances, and even the enemy do not have the ultimate say in your life - God does.
A Prayer for But God Moments
Father, we thank You for the "But God" moments of our lives, wherein You turned despair into hope, defeat into victory, and impossibilities into testimonies of Your faithfulness. For those who are struggling today, Lord, I pray, remind them of Your presence. Show them that You are at work even when it's hard to see. Thank You that You always have the last word, and that word is good. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Conclusion
The struggles of life may loudly roar, but two words; But God, can change everything. These words give hope, light, and the promise of a bigger story written by His hand. Be of good cheer; believe in Him and know this: whatever you're going through, God is with you.
As the words to that old hymn "I Will Sing the Wondrous Story" by William O. Cushing, so aptly say:
I was lost, but Jesus found me,
Found the sheep that went astray,
Threw His loving arms around me,
Drew me back into His way.
I was bruised, but Jesus healed me;
Faint was I from many a fall;
Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,
But He freed me from them all.
Days of darkness still come o’er me,
Sorrow’s paths I often tread,
But the Savior still is with me;
By His hand, I’m safely led.
Let us stand together, giving thanks for every "But God" moment that has brought us this far, and for everyone yet to come. Hallelujah! Amen.
This blog is based on a sermon delivered by Pastor Michael Williams on November 17, 2024, at the City Church Swansea