The Car Accident That Changed Everything
After a terrible car accident last year, I received a DM from a girl named Courtney.
She had seen the photo of my car—the kind of photo that makes you wonder how the person survived. She shared that earlier that same year, she had also been in what could have been a fatal car accident.
We talked about our experiences and the challenges of getting back behind the wheel.
Little did we know that less than a year later, she would be pulling into my driveway at 4:30 a.m., joining us for morning Bible study, and then doing back squats in the newly built rack on our property.
I had a moment where I thought,"Wow. I can't believe that's how we met, and now we're here... growing both spiritually and physically stronger together."
Genesis 50:20 came to mind:
"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."
What seemed like some of the worst moments of our lives turned into thegift of finding one another and into a strength that may not have developed without them.
I would never wish an accident like ours on anyone. But it is a reminder that whatever you are walking through right now, you may one day be amazed by the blessings God brings from it.
What I think
Many times, the biggest blessings are born out of the hardest moments.
But when we experience pain, our natural response is often to protect ourselves from ever feeling that way again.
Our brains are wired for safety and survival, so we begin avoiding anything that feels risky, uncomfortable, or potentially painful.
So what happens?
We self-protect.
We close ourselves off to anything that could hurt us. But in trying to protect ourselves from the negative,we can also close ourselves off from the positive—the relationships, opportunities, healing, growth, and purpose that may be waiting on the other side of vulnerability.
That is where the shift needs to happen.
It is not our job to protect ourselves from every possible form of pain.
First, because living as though everything depends on you creates debilitating anxiety.
Second, because no matter how hard you try, you do not have the power to control or protect yourself from everything.
Yes, we are grateful for the part of our brain that keeps us from walking off a cliff.
But that same safety mechanism can also convince us not to pursue the nudge God has placed on our hearts.
Sometimes what feels unsafe is not actually dangerous.
Sometimes it is simply unfamiliar.
And sometimes the very thing you are trying to protect yourself from is the place where God wants to grow you.
The one degree shift
Think back to a hard moment you have experienced.
Now, find one blessing that came from it.
It could be something you learned, someone you met, a strength you developed, or a door that opened because of what you endured.
Then, share it with someone.
There is someone walking through a difficult season right now who needs the hope your story can offer. They need to know they can make it through—and that even though they may not see it yet, God can still bring something good from the other side.
Want to learn more?
This past week, I had the opportunity to join theRelentless & Real Podcast with Heather Verity and Jennifer Lawson.
We dove into my story—the highs, the hard moments, and the journey that's shaped where I am today.
If you've been needing a nudge or the courage to step into a stronger version of yourself, this conversation is for you.
Listen here: Courage over Comfort | Relentless & Real Podcast
Always believe⚡️
Kelsey Lensman
