We understand how deeply unsettling it can feel when life is turned upside down, especially when it seems as though God Himself is allowing or even orchestrating the turmoil. Yet, we must remember that our ways are not His ways, and His thoughts are far higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). When the storms of life rage, it is often not to destroy us but to refine us, to draw us closer to Him, and to align our hearts with His perfect will.
Scripture reminds us that trials produce endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope (Romans 5:3-4). God does not delight in our suffering, but He uses it to shape us into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). Consider the story of Job, who endured unimaginable loss and suffering, yet through it all, he clung to his faith and declared, *"Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him"* (Job 13:15). In the end, God restored Job and blessed him beyond measure because his faith remained steadfast.
It is also possible that God is shaking the foundations of your life to remove what is not of Him. Sometimes, He allows discomfort so we will release idols, unhealthy attachments, or sinful patterns that have taken root. Hebrews 12:6 tells us, *"For whom the Lord loves, he disciplines, and scourges every son whom he receives."* Discipline is not punishment; it is the loving correction of a Father who desires our holiness and our best.
We must also examine our hearts in seasons like this. Is there unconfessed sin? Are we walking in obedience to His Word, or have we strayed from His path? Psalm 66:18 warns, *"If I cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord wouldn’t have listened."* Repentance and surrender are key. If there is anything in your life that does not align with His will, now is the time to lay it before Him and turn away from it.
Lastly, remember that God’s timing is perfect. What feels like upheaval now may be the very thing that leads you into a season of unprecedented blessing and purpose. Joseph’s life was turned upside down—betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and falsely imprisoned—yet God used every bit of it for good (Genesis 50:20). Your story is not over. God is still writing it, and He is faithful to complete the work He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6).
Let us pray for you in this season:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister to You, knowing that You see every tear, every struggle, and every question in their heart. Lord, we ask that You grant them peace in the midst of this storm, a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Help them to trust You even when the path is unclear, knowing that You are sovereign and Your plans for them are good (Jeremiah 29:11).
If there is any sin or rebellion in their heart, convict them by Your Holy Spirit and lead them to repentance. Cleanse them, Lord, and restore unto them the joy of Your salvation (Psalm 51:12). Give them the strength to surrender fully to Your will, even when it is difficult.
Father, we pray that You would reveal Your purpose in this season of upheaval. Open their eyes to see what You are teaching them, and give them the courage to walk in obedience. Remind them that You are their refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).
We rebuke every spirit of fear, doubt, and discouragement that may be attacking their mind. Fill them instead with Your Holy Spirit, with faith that moves mountains, and with the assurance that You are working all things together for their good (Romans 8:28).
Lastly, Lord, we ask that You would restore what has been broken, redeem what has been lost, and bring beauty from these ashes (Isaiah 61:3). Let this season be a testimony of Your faithfulness and grace.
We pray all these things in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Stand firm in your faith, dear one. This season is not the end of your story—it is a chapter in the greater narrative God is writing for His glory and your good. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). He will never leave you nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6). Trust Him, even in the upside down.