Our Troubles are but for a Season

In Psalm 73, Asaph recounts his experience of nearly falling: "...my steps had nearly slipped." As the wicked were prospering, his heart was troubled and he was chastened. The Baptist pastor Charles Spurgeon noted of our troubles: "Our troubles have always brought us blessings, and they always will. They are the dark chariots of bright grace... These clouds will empty themselves before long, and every tender herb will be gladder for the shower. Our God may drench us with grief, but He will refresh us with mercy." As Luke 17:13 says, "And they lifted up their voices and said, 'Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!'" The Lord is our all sufficient portion. As Psalm 73:25-26 concluded: "Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

Whether one is going through a struggle with illness in the family, a bad job market, or a disquieted life of anxiety attendant to life's burdens, the Lord knows our troubles. Likewise, he can use the hardships of life to draw us closer to Him, in service of His will. For those of faith, our reflection should be that the Lord cares for us, and He will shepherd us through the dark vallies of life. The Lord vindicates His people and judges the oppressors of His people. We should Trust in Him and cast our cares upon Him. If we diligently seek Him, beseech His mercy and forgiveness, then we can start to look for His providential blessing.

My desire is to work through my trials in His strength. As I seek a new job and a new domicile, I look to the kind hand of providence. My desire is to live peaceably among men, to grow in grace, and proclaim the Gospel of the Kingdom, and seek the Lord's perfect will for my life whereever He make take me. I beseech the intercession of the Lord Jesus Christ, His mercy, His protection and His grace, and I cast my cares to Him.