Romans 8:28 (NLT)… And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

Sometimes you might find yourself alone, among strangers, serving and working to help others. You might find yourself separated from the group you belong to, and you might feel something is wrong with you… You’ve been punished or ostracized for some greater cosmic reason, of which you will never know the reason.

If you find yourself in that situation, or discover those types of thoughts entering your mind from the evil one who tempts and deceives, counter those lies with this thought…

God has placed you in a group of strangers for a reason, a purpose greater than your feelings or your comfort level. God has placed you among strangers to bless them and transform you. God has situated you between strangers for a greater purpose. God wants to use you to do His work with people called to do the same work, with a common mission to unite your heart with friends working toward the same goal. When you are called to live out the purposes of God, with those who have a similar calling, you are no longer alone or isolated; you are among family.

God is causing your situation or circumstance to work out for good, even if you can’t see it now; don’t trust your feelings. Keep your thoughts on God, who loves you and has called you to His purposes to advance His plan, and to benefit you, bringing Him glory and honor in the process. So, hang in there and get out there and serve with some strangers; meet some new people, and don’t hang back in the shadows.

God has placed you there for a reason. God has a plan. God is working it out. God will bring some good out of what you think and feel is a tough situation. This is God’s purpose for you.

Last week, I served with MDS on a mission trip in Asheville, NC, with strangers became friends. We built houses, bridges, and refurbished homes outside and inside for homeowners who lost everything during Hurricane Helene. We united our strength to get some work done. We untied our hearts with compassion to care for people who are hurting and feeling hopeless. We united our minds around a desire to honor Jesus by serving others. Our diversity didn’t divide us. It made us stronger, it made us curious, and it made us humble. It made us realize we are better together as the “church” who serves in the name of Jesus!