There are few things more frustrating than being in the middle of telling a story only to have someone interrupt.
We’ve all experienced it. You’re trying to explain something important, and suddenly someone buts in. Before long, your train of thought is gone, and perhaps your feelings are a little hurt as well.
Most of us don’t enjoy being interrupted.
But there is one interruption I have learned to welcome.
I love it when God buts in.
The Bible is filled with glorious “but God” moments.
Joseph was betrayed by his brothers, but God used it to save a nation.
The Israelites were trapped between Pharaoh’s army and the Red Sea, but God made a way where there was no way.
Lazarus had been dead four days, but God called him from the tomb.
We were dead in our sins, deserving judgment…
But God.
Those may be two of the most hope-filled words in all of Scripture.
Romans reminds us that through one man, Adam, sin entered the world, bringing condemnation and death.
But God sent another Man.
Jesus stepped into our story.
Where Adam failed, Jesus obeyed.
Where sin increased, grace increased all the more.
Where death reigned, life triumphed.
God interrupted history with grace.
Isn’t that just like Him?
We see impossibility…
But God sees opportunity.
We see our failures…
But God offers forgiveness.
We see weakness…
But God provides strength.
We see dead ends…
But God opens doors no one else can.
Perhaps today you’re in the middle of telling yourself a discouraging story.
“My health will never improve…”
“My family will never change…”
“I’ve made too many mistakes…”
Can I encourage you to leave room for two powerful words?
But God…
When God “buts in,” He isn’t being rude.
He is being merciful.
He isn’t dismissing your pain.
He is bringing His perspective.
He isn’t ignoring the facts.
He is reminding you that His promises are greater than your circumstances.
Maybe that’s why I have grown to love those words so much.
When people interrupt me, they may change my conversation.
When God interrupts me, He changes my life.
Prayer
Father, thank You for every time You have stepped into my story with Your amazing grace. Forgive me for focusing so much on my circumstances that I forget to leave room for “But God.” Help me welcome Your interruptions, Your corrections, Your timing, and Your miracles. Interrupt my fear with Your peace, my doubt with Your truth, and my weakness with Your strength. Thank You that You are still the God who loves to “but in.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.
