For His Purpose
May 22-23
For His Purpose
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. Genesis 50:20
When life gives us a detour we often wave the white flag and ask the question – Why me God? “Why did this have to happen? Why me? Can this just please go away, Lord? Why did You allow this to happen, Lord? Where are You in this?” However, when we begin to ask these questions our focus is shifted from God and to self. We don’t see God in the situation and assume that somehow it is out of His control. When in fact the opposite is true. When our lives feel as if they’re being turned upside-down we should continue to believe that God is in the midst.
In his book titled – Trusting God, Even When Life Hurts Jerry Bridges speaks about suffering for the unbeliever and the believer. He says “That which should distinguish the suffering of believers from unbelievers is the confidence that our suffering is under the control of an all-powerful and all-loving God.”
This should encourage the Christian on trial, your suffering has meaning and purpose in God’s eternal plan. So next time you want to throw your hands up into the air in frustration, instead of asking the question ‘Why me God?’ use your words to worship that all knowing father and ask yourself the question why not you?
Agony is never easy. And I do not take what you are facing today lightly, but if we will humble ourselves before God by casting all our anxieties on Him, resist the devil, trust in the sovereign God of all grace, and stand firm in His grace with other saints, we can grow solid through our suffering.
Prayer for today: Dear God, I don’t want to be bounced around wavering in my faith but remain firm trusting in You. Please give me strength when I am weak, love when I feel forsaken, courage when I am afraid, and wisdom to know that You ways are higher than mine. Help me to feel your peace when I am in turmoil or feeling rejected. Thank You so much for being my ever present help. Amen.