For about two weeks now, there has been this ongoing struggle with loving others within me. It got especially bad the past couple of days. I started getting offended and intensely upset/hurt by others. In the midst of that "turmoil," I cried out to the Lord and began reading a lot more of Max Lucado's book Come Thirsty. This book is really being used as of late to comfort and encourage me in Christ. Well, today though tired, I had a good day and loved on others, and I also spent some time reading through more of the book and wanted to share some of it with yall. :) I must say that when you're struggling or feeling down I think what's below can really encourage you ...
"He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need there is" (Acts 17:25). ... Why do people struggle? To display his strength. "I have tested you in the furnace of affliction. For My own sake, for My own sake, I will act" (Isaiah 48:10-11). The prophet proclaimed, "You lead Your people, to make Yourself a glorious name" (Isaiah 63:14).
... I am the one who creates the light and makes the darkness. I am the one who sends good times and bad times. I, the LORD, am the one who does these things. (Isaiah 45:7)
Enjoy prosperity while you can. But when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. (Ecclesiastes 7:14)
Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that woe and well-being proceed? (Lamentations 3:38)
... Every so often in life, we find ourselves standing before God's counter, thinking we know the itinerary. Good health, a job promotion, a pregnancy. Many times God checks the itinerary he created and says yes. But there are times when he says, "No. That isn't the journey I have planned for you. I have you routed through the city of Struggle."
We can stamp our feet and shake our fists. Or we can make a sailor-in-the-storm decision. I know God knows what is best.
... Did God spare his Son from death? No. The glory of God outranked the comfort of Christ. So Christ suffered, and God's grace was displayed and deployed.
Are you called to endure a Gethsemane season? Have you "been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake" (Philippians 1:29)?
If so, then come thirsty and drink deeply from his lordship. He authors all itineraries. He knows what is best. No struggle will come your way apart from his purpose, presence, and permission. What encouragement this brings! You are never the victim of nature or the prey of fate. Chance is eliminated. ... Would God truly abandon you ... Perish the thought!
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you. For I am the LORD your God. (Isaiah 43:2-3)
We live beneath the protective palm of a sovereign King who superintends every circumstance of our lives and delights in doing us good.
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