“God does all these things to a person—
twice, even three times—
to turn them back from the pit,
that the light of life may shine on them."
twice, even three times—
to turn them back from the pit,
that the light of life may shine on them."
Job 33: 29-30
Do you ever wonder why you face trials?
Why people have times of struggle or difficulties?
Job is a man who faced innumerable struggles in the Bible.
He lost his home, his family, his wife, his fortune and his health. He lost everything until all he had left was his relationship with God.
His "friends" thought that Job was at fault - he must have done something wrong. Why else would God be forcing him to suffer?
But God challenges Job's friends and even Job himself.
Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?
Tell me, if you understand.
Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know!
Tell me, if you understand.
Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know!
Job 38:4-5
Basically - God is telling Job -
"Dude - you are questioning Me?
Who do you think you are?
I created the WORLD....what have you done?"
Job and his friends were questioning God's will in their lives - assuming the role of judge and jury.
They assumed simply because someone was going through difficulties that person must have done something horrible to deserve the suffering.
But - that's not how God works.
God doesn't punish us with suffering - but He does allow difficult things in our lives to draw us closer to Him.
When life is going well - like it was for Job before his trials - we tend to not rely as heavily on God. But when we face difficulties - illness, job-loss, broken relationships - we are more likely to turn into the arms of the One Who created us.
And - amazingly - even when we are in the midst of a hardship we will be able to count our blessings - trusting in the One Who is always there for us.
Scripture
Quote
May we be strengthened with the understanding that being blessed does not mean that we shall always be spared all the disappointments and difficulties of life.
Heber Grant
GUMY CHALLENGE!
Okay gang...here we go ...part 2!
Your clue is this...
Just tell me who the recognized founder of Methodism is...
Hint...He wasn't actually a Methodist....
Don't forget - you need BOTH answers (this week's and last week's) to get this Sunday's SUPER prize!
(A $10 iTunes Gift Card!!!!)
I'll be looking for you Sunday (July 14th) morning before church!
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