Why Does God Promise Trouble?
Sometimes we believe that God loves us so much, that He would place us in a bubble. Protect us from all hardship, but that is not true. Even the children of God can face extremely trying times. Job is not alone…..Scripture is full of God’s promises. These are truths we can depend on. Did you know that the bible foretells a time when the road ahead will be difficult?
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters
Not if, but when. A time will come that you will be overcome by life beyond your own strength but…
I will be with you;
In the certain trials ahead, we will not face them alone.
And when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; The flames will not set you ablaze.
Can’t you hear God saying, it’s ok just take my hand. By nature water will overwhelm, rivers will carry away, and fire will burn BUT God does not operate within the limitations of nature. God has authority overall. It is my belief that in the most dire circumstances we learn our greatest lesson, which is to simply rely on him.
Let him lead.
Let him be your strength.
Let him provide.
Let him protect.
Let him sustain.
As adults that can be so difficult because age develops a sense of self-reliance and pride within us that prohibits us from letting someone else provide. EVEN THE GOD OF OUR UNIVERSE.
So often God says that to inherit the kingdom of God we must become like little children. Do you remember as a child reaching up and taking your father’s hand? It seemed so natural, so easy, so appropriate. We knew we were safe, loved, and provided for when our hand was in his. I don’t know why we struggle to maintain that pure submissive love to our Father in Heaven as adults, but that is what I see God trying to rebuild in us during the hard times because...
For I am the Lord, Your God...
Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
and because I love you.
Isaiah 43:3-4
God created us to love us. He keeps coming back to us and providing for us because He loves us. Our purpose as his created is to simply love him back with the love of a child.
Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
He made us, he redeemed us, he loves us. Nothing can separate us from the love of God, not even earthly trials that feel as if that are going to overcome, burn, or carry you away. Surely He is not apart from us in the moments we need him most. Isaiah 43 promises He will be with us.
So, "Fear Not" He says.....