Faithfulness in the valley

It was good for me to be afflicted so

that I might learn your decrees (Psalm 119:71).

 

FAITHFULNESS IN THE VALLEY

 

I RECENTLY ATTENDED a funeral for a 14- month-old baby who had drowned in a pool. The church was packed. Beautiful songs were sung. The pastor brought a clear gospel message. It was an incredible time of worship. The family was comforted by the love shown to them by so many. But that night, everyone else would go home. In the quiet of their home, they would decide whether to seek God’s strength or to blame God. I am glad to say that this family has chosen to seek God’s strength, but many do not. only God knows why things happen and although we can empathize with the family, there’s nothing we can say to make the pain go away. only God can heal the brokenhearted.

 

As long as we live in a sinful world, families will experience tragedies like this. Should the time come for you or your family, I pray that you will grow through it. Many others have experienced tragedies like this one. At times, it seems that God is far away, yet when we turn, we’ll discover Him standing closer than ever. When we do turn to God during our crises, we’ll find that He is faithful not only to minister to us in our grief, but to minister to others through us.

 

“Come near to God and He will come near to you” (James 4:8).

—Mike McClung

 

Anyone can serve God on the mountaintop. Can you serve Him in the valley?