God Meets Us in Tragedy

Alicia Searl
5 hours ago
2 min read

By Saneha Joanna

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

A few years after my parents married, I was born. After me, two brothers came into the world. One of my brothers was born with a disability and, sadly, he passed away. My younger brother also became ill and later died.

Some time after those losses, God began to move in our lives. A little while later my youngest sister was born — she lives with us now. But because of harmful influences and certain behaviors, my father drifted far from God. He fell into drug addiction, and that made our family circumstances really difficult.

We relied on one another completely, but there was no one to help us. Eventually we began to give more of our time to God. As a result, God started to work in our lives and bring change. It is by God’s great grace that He is at work in us today; using us for His glory and in the name of His praise.

I’m from Pakistan, and Christianity is not very welcomed here. It is an Islamic republic and the majority of the population is Muslim. I am thankful that God has moved in my heart and opened me up to His Word.

There are many verses that bring me hope, but a few that I keep returning to are:

• Jeremiah 29:11 — God’s plans for us are for good, to give hope and a future.

• Romans 8:28 — He works all things together for good for those who love Him.

• Psalm 23:1–4 — The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing even in the darkest valley.

• Isaiah 40:31 — Those who wait on the Lord renew their strength and soar on wings like eagles.

• Philippians 4:6–7 — When we bring our prayers to God, His peace guards our hearts.

I have a Bible, and I treasure it! I enjoy deepening my relationship with God by coming to His Word every day, and going to Him through prayer. I listen quietly for His voice by worshipping Him and by living out His love toward others. It’s not a one-time submission, but a daily surrender: reading Scripture, meditating on it, praying it back to God, and obeying what He shows me. That steady, simple obedience to the Lord is what shapes hope, peace, and courage in my life.

God has been faithful to me and heals broken pieces of our hearts and lives when we trust in Him.

Saneha Joanna is a Christ follower from Pakistan and this is her testimony. Please find more hope and encouragement on IG @sanehagill1122