God's providence in the good times and bad

November 9, 2010

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

We all go through difficult times. But have you ever wondered, perhaps even aloud, "Why is God allowing this to happen to me?" And just then, a well-intentioned friend walks up to you and says, "It's just part of God's plan." 

 

I don't know about you, but that little phrase usually frustrates people more than it comforts! Why would God, who loves you, want you to experience difficulty in your life? What kind of a ‘plan' is that?!

The problem that most Christians encounter when thinking of suffering is that they categorically dismiss all suffering as bad and all pleasure as good. But we know from everyday life that this isn't true!

I love a good Thanksgiving dinner, but if I ate it every day, I would probably have a heart attack. In the same way, I don't look forward to getting my flu shot each year, but I know it will keep me healthy in the long run.

More than anything, God desires that you would be completely satisfied in him. Everything in the world will disappoint, but God will never disappoint. Your satisfaction in him is his long-term goal for your life.

So in the short-term, look for God when the difficult times come and know that it's all for your good!

TRUST THAT THROUGH THE GOOD TIMES AND THE BAD, GOD WORKS EVERYHING FOR YOUR BENEFIT.


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Straight Up

Dear Friend,

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After listening, you'll be more equipped to live a confident life, knowing the truth and trusting the promises of Christ! 

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