Life Lessons to Learn From a Space Capsule Failure
How do you handle unexpected and prolonged difficulties in your life? With frustration? Anger? Despair? Doubting God’s oversight and sovereignty in your situation?
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What was scheduled to be an 8-day test flight of the Boeing Starliner capsule for US astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunni Williams turned into a 286-day test of endurance and conviction during an unexpected life-limiting stay in space aboard the International Space Station due to the capsule’s technical problems including helium leaks in its propulsion system and the failure of several reaction control system thrusters.
Wilmore, a devout Christian, leaned on his faith throughout the extended mission. He described his spiritual connection as “vital to existence,” emphasizing that knowing God was in control sustained him during the 9-month ordeal.
While in orbit, Wilmore led church devotionals and even joined fellow astronauts in singing Amazing Grace with members of his home congregation, Providence Baptist Church in Pasadena, Texas.
Before being rescued by a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule and experiencing the 17-hour journey back to Earth on March 18, 2025, Wilmore was asked how he was enduring the dilemma of his unforeseen business trip. He said, “I can tell you honestly, my feeling on all of this goes back to my faith. It’s bound in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He’s working out his plan and his purposes for his glory throughout all of humanity. And how that plays into our lives is significant and important. And however that plays out, I am content because I understand that I understand that he’s at work in all things.”
Despite the immense challenge, Wilmore remains steadfast in his faith, seeing the experience as part of God’s greater plan. In the video below he says, “Was it my plan? My plans are not usually the right plans. The Lord’s always are. Regardless of what takes place, God’s word is clear, and I believe it because I’ve lived it—God is always good.”
Or watch it here.
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