Phrases like "God has a purpose in all of this." "Just keep trusting Him." "He will work things out." "All things work together for good to them who love God to them who all called according to His purpose." "Count it PURE JOY when you face various trials." "It will be worth it all when we see Jesus." "Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."
I've heard them all and, guess what, they are all true. I believe every one of them. They are biblical! But when these statements are dumped on you when you are in the dumps they can sound awfully hollow. I know! I've been there! I'm still there!
"His Grace is Sufficient" is another one. What does that mean anyway? His grace is all I ever will need? What about a job, a friend, a hot meal, warm clothing, shelter? Is His grace able to suffice in these needy situations?
All I can say is YES. I can't explain it. I don't always "feel" it. I sometimes doubt it. But when I come to the end of the day with all of its "stuff", I can sing "His Grace is Sufficient". (click on the link) Because it just IS. Believe me!
David, I understand that it might "sound hollow", but ultimately is there any other comfort we can offer each other outside of His glorifying truth?
ReplyDeleteWhen my mother was in the slough of despond, I could hug her, and sit with her in silence, but the only truth and hope I had to give her was His, even though for many months it appeared to mean absolutely nothing to her.
Glad you can still sing,
the statement that always pierces my heart is "God won't give you more than you can handle" ... I make it a point not to tell someone a cliche Bible quote because the above one was SO overused/misused when we were going through a long valley with burdens heaped upon us to the point of physical exhaustion from taking care of sick children. God did bring us through the 'summer from hell' and to have not heard that quote would have made it more bearable! For some reason God has replaced sadness and strife with an extra potion of endless optimism (that won't shut off) ... my term for it is 'happy juice' .. ;)
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