Life comes in seasons and wisdom, I have learned, is the ability to manage and make the most of each. There are seasons of joy, when the weather is fair and life is fun. Times when God’s power and presence is so strong in us and around us that we not only believe, we know beyond doubt that nothing is impossible for us. Times when everything we touch turn to gold and life feels real good. Times when everyone is at peace with us and we enjoy favor. Times that before you think of what you need, it shows up, even without your having asked for it.
Then there are times when it seems heaven is shut and earth is mad at you. You pray and the opposite happens. Disappointment snatches every expectation. It seems every road you pass turns up nothing but trouble. The harder you strive, the worse it becomes. The more you save, the more you lose. Nothing appears to work and nobody seems to understand. In fact, it seems as though creation has ganged up against you and no matter what you do, nothing fits.
Well, in such times, remember God. God is good not only when life is great. When we pass through the valleys of shadows of death, even there His presence preserves us more than ever. Yes, He is with us in times of peace and plenty, yet in times of trouble and want, Jehovah is nearer to His own.
Do not let unfavorable circumstances rob you of the constant sense of His presence. You need to know and be confident that whether you feel Him or not, whether you see Him or not, God is an ever present help to those whose hearts have become home to His holy presence. Besieged from every side, I woke up this morning saying, “Abba, it seems like You are no longer in charge. Like some alien forces have taken over and are attempting to wreck all they can within their limited time but I know…. I know that You know…. I am confident that You are watching over me for good. I know that I am coming out stronger and richer. I will emerge from every furnace better than I was before the fire began. Until then, I choose to go through every stage thankful because it could have been worse if not for You!”
Whatever your case may be today, be thankful and bless His holy name because truly, it could have been worse without God. Blessed be the name of the faithful One who preserves His own to the end. He has blessed us, life’s happenstances cannot reverse it. He will deliver to the uttermost, and He will establish us in peace, plenty and safety, amen. Be encouraged, it is well!
Glory!