For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:17
The news is always a lesson in suffering. It tells us about sickness and disease, automobile accidents, train wrecks, and plane crashes that cost human lives. There are floods, famines, earthquakes, criminal violence, and the bloodshed of war.
What do all these things mean? Are we the victims of fate, the playthings of chance? Is there a vast indifference at the heart of the universe? Some say that whatever power may direct our lives, it is completely blind or at least beyond our understanding.
The Bible gives us a far happier view of life. It says that He who is called the supreme being of the universe is a wise and good God, who has a deep, personal interest in His people. Under His gracious control even affliction has value for us.
If we are in Christ, we can find meaning in our tears, purpose in our pain, and sense in our suffering. In Christ we too can say: "Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." Christ was afflicted that we may be glorified.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, help us to understand that in all things You work for the good of those who love You. Amen.
(Taken from "Words of Promise, copyright 1996 (out of print), Concordia Publishing House. For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800-325-3040.)
Today's Bible Readings: Jeremiah 1-2 Acts 26
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