Recently, in the midst of the rote and routine of daily life, which we often perceive to be "mundane normalcy," our family incurred a devastating blow. We received news that, though always known to be a possibility, really bit when it came home. We can be rolling along in the enjoyment of our lives in Christ with our loved ones among us. Then, from somewhere comes the critical diagnosis from somewhere in the family.
In most cases, this calls for a total reset for everyone involved. Trials do change those with whom are affected for the days to come. Maybe, while we're walking through such testing and emotional anxieties, something else just as serious may strike and literally seems to place us in a vise that presses us until we're sure to break.
You've been there, right? If not, something similar? Or, you will be at some time in the future.
Testing, the trials of our faith, are inevitable. We must thank our God even if we feel we're about to be taken out in the process. (After all, where would we be going?) (see II Cor. 5:8 & Phil.1:20,21)
I remember specifically speaking to my husband when we were already maxed emotionally with our overwhelming circumstances, and then, the second critical issue presented itself. I said to him, "God will not allow all of this at once. Will He?" But, oh yes, He did, indeed, allow it. And our only recourse was to say, In Him would we trust. He would see us through it all. We belonged to Him, therefore we knew He would be working these circumstances for His people. (see Rom. 8:28,29)
Did we handle everything well? Probably not. Were we free of anxiety and sadness? Not so. Did we feel His presence and experience the love of His people supporting us in every way imaginable during this time? Yes, absolutely. Praise God!
There were hard days. Yet, He provided needed help. There were sad periods of grief, yet He brought solace. Yes, He washed our eyes with tears so that we may see the glory of Himself. Many times when we find ourselves in the midst of the hellish pressures confronted on this earth, we may see no relief forthcoming. However, our Heavenly Father is faithful always to provide and turn the tides to bring forth blessings and needed relief.
It's always good to read the book of Job, who encountered so much yet trusted His God even in his times of weakness. How peaceful it will be to trust the One Who has written the plan and cling to His providential care. The various ministries and workings of God's Spirit in the midst of trial and heartache are so often unknown to our understanding. Our Father is faithful to complete the work He desires in each of us. How much better it would be if we could take our rest and confidence in Him during the process. (see Job 1:20-22;13:15;42:10)
By His grace and for His glory, may it be so!
In Christ,
Julie
Scriptures for Reference:
II Cor. 5:8 "Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord." ESV
Phil.1:20,21 "...as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." ESV
Rom. 8:28,29 "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers." ESV
Job 1:20-22 "Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the ground and worshiped. And he said, 'Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.' In all this Job did not sin or charge God with wrong." ESV
Job13:15 "Though he slay me, I will hope in Him, yet I will argue my ways to His face." ESV
Job 42:10 "And the LORD restored the fortunes of Job when he had prayed for his friends. And the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before." ESV
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