Hard Times Or Heavenly Design?

While today’s post might seem small, do not let this fool you from hearing about a lesson in the Bible that I want to share with you all today. As believers there are times we go through life challenges, and we might be at risk of thinking we are not in God’s will. That the fact it is not easy means we are not following what God would have us being doing. Unfortunately, many Christians believe that God will make His path for our life effortless, that God’s will is the path of least resistance. However, I would like to argue that there is no where in the Bible that would indicate such a doctrine or even a principle like this in the Bible. Many believers have struggled and fought hard, only to later look back and realize they were exactly where God wanted them to be. Just look at Joseph who went through challenge after challenge as God was shaping him into the man he was supposed to be. His attitude was key, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today” Genesis 50:20. Some of these challenges were his brothers selling him into slavery, being falsely accused of rape, and being imprisoned while innocent of any charges. Nevertheless, Joseph understood God was teaching him something.

Another example is Paul, who was imprisoned in Rome. Was he in God’s will? Of course he was. God has uniquely brought Paul to a prison where he would be under guard twenty-four hours a day with the Praetorian Guard. Not only did this mean the Praetorian guards heard the gospel, but the gospel was then brought to Caesars’ very household where some became believers, "All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household." Philippians 4:22. Why do I bring this up? I want to point your attention to a false narrative that the Church has boughten into. We have been lied to that if we are having any struggles, we are not in God’s will. There might be times it is hard or even the most difficult thing you have ever done, it could even be unfair and unjust by what you understand, but remember that God could be using you for something greater. We need to recognize these moments and be mindful enough and vigilant to the signs that God is with us and trying to use us for His glory.

So, remember just because it is hard does not automatically mean you are not in God’s will. Rather, He could be preparing you or someone watching you for His mission and glory. Pray to be humble and a quick learner of the lessons you are being taught.

Hold Until Relieved, Our Blessed Hope is Coming,

JL