The Tribune

By CARLOS SPENCER

Life can be overwhelming at times and we have all experienced moments of pain, loss, suffering, heartbreak. misfortune, etc. at some point. In such moments our faith might be challenged but this is precisely the time to look to God and seek His strength and guidance. We can find comfort in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (KJV) which tells us “we are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”

Believers and non-believers can rest assured that our Almighty God remains in control and loves us beyond normal human comprehension. He proved this by allowing Christ to die an horrific death for our sins. God is faithful and as a good shepherd He lovingly and meticulously looks after His flock. We know that irrespective of what we encounter along life’s path, our Heavenly Father is concerned about our well being. We might endure for a while, but eventually God brings us through the storms of life. We read in 1 Peter 5:10 (KJV): “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”

We must stand firm and allow the grace of God to manifest itself. We do so out of humility, and because of our faith. I have had my moments of pain, loss and despair, and continue to face adversity daily. I also know of individuals who are currently carrying heavy burdens due to the loss of loved ones. Some are unable to come to terms with their loss, and continue to struggle from one day to the next. Their faith has been turned upside down, and they have a myriad of questions such as “why?”, or “for how long?” Habakkuk 1:2 (KJV) records: “O Lord, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save!”

However, God works in His own unique way. His will must be done, and this is sacrosanct. First the testing, followed by the blessing. Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) admonishes us to “trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

David wrote in Psalm 23:4 (KJV): “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Through it all our focus should remain on God. This is the solution to our pain and difficult season, however reluctant we are to believe and accept this.

Adversity and misfortune of whatever complexion have a way of bringing us closer to God. Believers tend to turn to their faith, whilst non-believers or persons of minimal faith begin to see God as a point of reference or solace. Some become so despondent that God changes their lives completely as they look for answers and comfort during a challenging season. Therein the peace of God which passeth all understanding (Philippians 4:7) takes on an entirely different and more pertinent meaning. The consequence is that out of tribulation one grows in one’s relationship with God. Praise the Lord for this unexpected blessing. Quite a paradox, but it is real.

When we have experienced hurt, loss, and a broken heart, we tend to welcome inner peace, serenity and happiness. God eventually heals our broken hearts, and this will normally come about in the fullness of time….but we must be patient. Healing takes time but this enables us to appreciate the wonder and marvel of God’s amazing grace. We are reminded of Philippians 4:19 (KJV): “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

Amen. Thanks be to God for the sharing of His word.