Sun 13 Aug

The missionary who faithfully serves the Lord grapples with depression and sees him return home from the field. The parents of a still born look longingly at the lifeless child in their hands. The daughter of a loving Christian family overdoses on ICE. We could think of many other situations to these stories. We see clearly what has happened at a physical level but these stories and others like them cause us to pause and ponder several questions. Where is God in the midst of all this suffering and grief? Does God care about my situation? Is God even in control when things appear so out of control? Apostle Paul writes a comforting and challenging verse in Romans 8:28. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose." Challenging words when we are hurting or grieving or suffering in pain. Yet they are also comforting words for the one who has placed their trust in Jesus Christ. In the midst of our troubles and trials we can rest in the knowledge that our loving heavenly Father knows exactly what we will need. And that every step we take God is bringing that step into line with His good and perfect will so that we become more and more like His Son Jesus Christ. What trials will God allow you to walk through this week so that you become more and more like Jesus?