ByKeith Haney

 AUG 25, 2021

Recently, I attended a conference where the speaker was trying to find a word to describe this season of our lives. He invented a new word, PUC. What does PUC mean in good Lutheran fashion? It stands for Pain, Uncertainty, and Chaos. Does that resonate with you? This year, we have seen more than our fair share of three of those. My focus is on the word “chaos.” As believers, we have had to learn to live in the chaos.We like things we can control, but COVID-19 taught us we cannot control the chaos. Rules are in place to help reduce chaos, but rules are often there because someone in the past created chaos. Think back to the year you saw more growth in your life in the chaos. If we avoid chaos, we may limit the growth God has in mind for our life. James reminds us, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4). My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, do not obsess about those things you have no control over. Instead, focus on the outcome. God uses tough times, even chaotic times, to strengthen our faith.Questions to Ponder.

1. How has God challenged you during this chaos?
2. What growth opportunities have come out of this season?
3. What is your plan to implement and take advantage of this opportunity?