Peter said that this was how God “brought to fulfillment what he had announced beforehand”—the healing, restoration, and refreshment of his people. In the midst of such suffering, it was next to impossible to believe that a greater blessing could come; but come it did!
Sometimes, we just need to keep walking through the events or circumstances that cause us pain. The truth that God has a plan can offer little comfort at the time, but
faith can supply what experience lacks.
Sometimes we simply have to wait patiently to see how that plan will unfold, knowing that somehow God will win and we will be comforted.*** By making the small, daily choices to stay close to God in prayer, our perspective will begin to change. So instead of just asking “why?” ask, “What do you have in store?” Then see what happens. ***
Maybe that afflicted neighbor needs a friend to walk beside him through his trial. Maybe the jobless relative would benefit from a note of encouragement and assurance of your prayers. Who knows? Maybe you will be lifted up as you take time with the Scriptures to see how God has walked with his people and brought them through their suffering to blessings and peace!
“Lord, you are Almighty God. I know I can trust you,
wherever life takes me.
Help me to stay close to you
and receive assurances from the Holy Spirit
that you are indeed in control!”
