"My child, if you are going to serve the Lord, be prepared for times when you will be put to the test. 2 Be sincere and determined. Keep calm when trouble comes. 3 Stay with the Lord; never abandon him..." Sirach 2:1-3 / Good News Bible
Today's passage reminds us to keep our wits about us when tests and trials come our way. This reading points to something that veteran Christians all over the world have long ago realized--That is, that challenges and obstacles often follow those who serve the Lord.
There really is no need for despair or dismay over what occurs in ones life when you lay your life in Jesus' hands. It is simply part of a servants life to be tested. Physical infirmity, mental illness, persecution... All are training grounds that help answer the great question that Jesus asked Peter 3 times... "Do you love me?" True, some people try to blame others for the trials and tribulations in their lives, or Satan, but it is indisputable that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life--Omniscient, Almighty and He is in control. What happens in our lives that is beyond our control is what the Lord allows to happen.
I have wrestled for years with coming to terms with how God can allow certain things to happen in this life. But I have concluded that it is not really always our privilege to know the plans of God.; He is in control. However, I also believe it is imperative to assume that He has a wonderful plan for each of us, and it is specially tailored for you and me. Best of all, this assumption takes the guessing out of life's toughest challenges, and replaces conjecture with a great boost of confidence, trust and peace in God's Divine Plan, and Jesus Christ--The greatest hope this world has ever known!
Adele M. Gill 2013 Copyright
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