I took my mother-in-law, who had been here since April, on a cross country “road trip” to visit her family in Pennsylvania. Leaving at 9 am last Sunday and arriving at 5 pm on Monday was the easy part of the trip. Even leaving at 6 pm Wednesday and arriving home at 8 pm last evening was easier than what took place Wednesday.

I hate family politics. I hate the “games” played between family members as they seek to advance personal agendas and get what they think they deserve. I hate the subtle pressure put on unsuspecting parents by feuding and selfish children and most of all, I hate deception. I knew all along that Wednesday would be the most difficult part of the trip and it met and exceeded all expectations.

I had thought about and prayed about the situation for two weeks. I was prepared for what I thought was any and every eventuality. But, as we drove into the town where another daughter lived, my whole system seized up and spiritually I was on pins and needles. I knew an ambush was coming and I thought I was prepared. As we pulled up to the daughter’s house, I knew something was very wrong, and it was.

Sure enough, within 30 minutes of getting there, the “intervention” began. The two daughters and son relentlessly expressed their displeasure regarding their mother's ideas on living arrangements, her quick trip and her decision to stay in Missouri with us until her living quarters are built. Three times I had to leave and go outside to pray and blow off steam. I knew I could not afford to lose my temper.

The third time The Lord told me to let my mother-in-law go. He pleaded with me to cut the emotional strings and let Him take care of her. Much to everyone’s surprise, I told the group I was leaving “mom” there and returning to Missouri. It was plainly apparent there was no other option. After initially fighting the idea, mom decided it was a good plan and all the tension was relieved.

Due to family politics, I do not know if we will ever see mom again. As painful as this thought is, I know I did the right thing to take “the high road” and manifest the love of God in this situation. All we can do is keep praying she will happy and that God will take care of her while easing the empty sadness we have right now.

God is a big God and will guard and protect this situation as He has promised He would do in His Word. I did all I could do and sense knowledge wise it was not enough. But, because of what the Lord told me, I have a peace inside that all will be well. Despite being incredibly tired from the long trip (2,000 miles in 4 days), I am at peace that God’s will was done and will continue to be done in the days, months and years ahead.

Peace is the assurance that God gives us that everything is and/or will be fine. Once you have that “answer of peace”, never doubt it. It is God’s gift to you that allows you to remain faithful even when surrounded by turmoil, stress or anxiety. We truly have a wonderful God don’t we?

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