Before the sun rose this morning, I awoke to this all-consuming, fearful thought concerning my grandson, a senior in high school. A dozen or so "what ifs" bombarded my subconscious mind like the Kamikaze suicide pilots of World War II.

Yet in the midst of the attack, I sensed God's peace. I had experienced this kind of attack—worry and paralyzing fear—in the past. I recalled struggling through the "coming-of-age" season a few years ago with my son and daughter.

So, I thought, Do I listen to these attacks or what? I just want my rest!

Then, another question blew through my mind like a gentle snowfall, What if (the worst thing) happens?"

I began to recall of some of my worst fears that did happen—with my children at that same age. And although I tried to stop my children from falling, they chose to jump a few times anyway—much to my horror.

But did we survive? Yes. And did we all learn powerful life lessons through every experience? Again, yes!

I didn't like scraping my kids off the pavement when they fell, but I never really had a choice in the matter. I felt compelled to "be there" for my kids, because I loved them—no matter what mistakes they made. 

I also remembered how many times has God placed someone in my life to encourage and support me when I've "blown it"?

Experiencing the power of redeeming love energizes us to give it back to others. Whether it's forgiveness, mercy, understanding, or whatever the moment requires, the grace and mercy of God compels us to give it away to others.

How can I not give whatever the situation requires? As I look in the mirror, I remember how much grace and mercy I've been forgiven. How can I refuse to give away what has been so graciously given to me? So, how can I not trust the Lord with my grandson's future?

As I turned over in my bed to return to sleep in the early hours of the morning, I also remembered how God has even used my failures for my good (and for His plans). Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

I don't pretend to understand how that promise in Romans works—and I despise it when someone quotes it to me in the middle of a crisis—but I know it is true. God has never failed me or my children.

"I once was young, now I’m a (gray)—not once have I seen an abandoned believer, or his kids out roaming the streets (Psalm 37:25 MSG).

Photo/KarenJordan

What promises from God's Word have you held on to in a crisis?