Lite Readings
Lite Readings
Devotional readings to encourage and inspire
“Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure.” (Isaiah 46:10)
Every day of our existence, God is actively instructing us. We can see some of this training right away. We are equipped and prepared for His ministry via Bible study, prayer, church involvement, missions, and fellowship with other believers. However, He also uses some other, less evident forms of training. This occurs as unfavorable news, illness, loss of loved ones, sadness, job loss, difficulties in relationships, challenges with money, and mistreatment by others. When they appear so horrible, how can these situations ever prepare us for anything positive? How can being shattered strengthen us? Although it sounds counterintuitive, God is capable of doing it. In the lives of His people, He has done it over time.
If you quickly go through the Bible, you will find several instances of how God used things that appeared to be terrible for His higher purposes. Just a few instances include Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Gideon, David, and Elijah. Certainly, Jesus Christ is the best illustration. How must things have appeared on the day He hung on that cross to die? What do you suppose His followers felt as they saw the innocent friend and beloved Rabbi put to death? Could they ever have imagined the good that would result from His death?
These biblical illustrations serve as a reminder of God's omniscience. Even when things appear to be out of control, God is in charge of our lives. We can rely on His methods. He is good, and we can trust that. Remembering that He has a purpose for each of us and that whatever He permits into our lives is done so to better equip us for His service. Therefore, we must humble ourselves before our King.
Prayer: Almighty God, I am truly grateful that You have control over my life. I trust You. Give me the confidence and discernment to trust You to equip me, in every situation, for the plans You have for me. In the name of Jesus, Amen.