A Thief Cannot Steal What Matters Most
My head was spinning as I spoke with the police. What began as a relaxing Saturday at the gym turned into an unexpected nightmare. Instead of relishing in post-exercise euphoria, I was shutting down my credit cards, figuring out how to replace my identification, and making lists of what else I had lost and needed to do. All because while I had been working out, a savvy thief broke into my locker, stole my purse, and immediately accessed my accounts.
When I got home, still grappling with what had happened, my daughter asked, “Mom, if she used the money to buy food, would you feel better about it?” I paused and replied, “If I knew she needed food, I would have given it to her.”
I believe in giving and I do give—and give generously. But I prefer to give voluntarily. I don’t know the motivation of the person who stole my purse, but even if she had been in legitimate need, stealing is wrong. I felt violated.
As I pondered this crime and my reaction, I kept hearing the same words from people at the gym: “This has never happened here before.” Should I really be surprised that it happened to me? Especially when I consider all the spiritual attacks people face when advancing the Kingdom of God.
Just last week, leaders at our Christian Chamber Coalition meeting shared the spiritual battles they’re dealing with: serious health issues, family concerns, housing dilemmas, car troubles, financial pressures, and even petty crimes. “This has never happened before”—until it does.
The enemy is wily. Once we learn how to deal with one tactic, the enemy comes up with another. We have to stay alert. We’re not fighting against flesh and blood. I’ve heard stories of business leaders losing millions to betrayal and deceit. These setbacks are meant to deter us, to make us question God and become bitter. But instead, they can forge a stronger resolve and greater faith.
Through suffering, God prepared Joseph to rescue a nation and his family. He wasn’t bitter. He became a great innovator and showed compassion to those who meant to harm him. David, too, found strength in the Lord, and after weeping until he could weep no more, he achieved victory and showed goodness to others. Doing what you’re called to do is rarely easy. It often comes with unimaginable challenges. But if you release them back to God, recognizing them for what they are, your ability to conquer them will become greater than anything you could imagine. Keep your eyes focused on God, and He will carry you through every trial as you walk in your calling. Don’t let what the enemy meant for harm distract you from God’s purpose.
To those of you who have commiserated with me and offered assistance, thank you. This theft is a minor blip compared to the struggles so many others are facing. I’ve lost a little stuff and some time, but otherwise I’m fine.
As I write this, Florida is preparing for a major hurricane—the second in weeks to strike our state. Millions of people across the Southeast are dealing with unimaginable loss from Hurricane Helene and now we are looking at the potential of record-breaking devastation from Hurricane Milton. It puts a stolen purse in perspective and reminds me of what’s truly important.
Wherever you are in the world, my heart is with every one of you walking through a crushing season. Be encouraged, friends. You belong to the Creator of the Universe, and He is doing a GREAT work in and through you, even when it’s hard to see.
