In my work with families who are going through various hardships, from sickness and death to marital conflict and adolescent rebellion, I have found it common for those in crisis to feel great frustration with God. This is particularly true when things happen that seem illogical and inconsistent with what had been taught or understood. Then, if the Lord does not rescue them from the circumstances in which they are embroiled, their frustration quickly deteriorates into anger and a sense of abandonment. Finally, disillusionment sets in, and the spirit begins to waiver.
Most believers are permitted to go through emotional and spiritual valleys that are designed to test their faith in the crucible of fire. Why? Because faith ranks at the top of God’s system of priorities. Without it, He said, it is impossible to please Him (Hebrews 11:6). And what is faith? It is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1, KJV). This determination to believe when the proof is not provided and when the questions are not answered is central to our relationship with the Lord. He will never do anything to destroy the need for faith. In fact, He guides us through times of testing specifically to cultivate that belief and dependence on Him.
More on this subject tomorrow.
(From Dr. James Dobson’s book, When God Doesn’t Make Sense.)
Just Between You and God
- Has your trial weakened your faith or strengthened it? If your faith has waned, ask the Lord to give you the grace to believe and a promise from His Word to hold onto, such as Isaiah 41:10.
- Do you feel victimized by God because of your circumstances? If so, ask Him to give you a glimpse of His purpose so that you might see how He is working in you to fulfill His eternal plan.
Pray These Words
Heavenly Father, please strengthen my faith as I am reminded of Your promises that never fail. Help me to grow in You as I look to the cross and see Jesus breaking the chains of sin and death. May this reminder of His suffering help me to endure what is set before me.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10
Related Resource:
Video: Trusting God When Life Doesn’t Make Sense
What should we do when we cannot see God’s goodness? In seasons of pain or confusion, it is easy to feel abandoned, and those doubts can lead us down a path of despair, questioning if the Lord even cares. But we do not have to stay there. In this video, Chris and Taylor Bruin share hope-filled truths and practical steps to help you trust in your heavenly Father, even when it is hard to understand. Watch Now >
