Many of you, perhaps, struggle now and again discerning God’s permission versus His determination in life’s defining circumstances.  There are simply some things on earth we will not understand.  Issac Watts texts in his vintage hymn “When I Can Read My Title Clear”, “Let cares, like a wild deluge come, and storms of sorrow fall!  May I but safely reach my home.”

We need not wait for heaven, however, to realize God’s resolve.  He loves us unconditionally and is in control.  “We know all things work together for good to those who are called according to His purpose” Romans 8:28.  Jesus said, “I came that they might have life, and that they may have life more abundantly” John 10:10.  That promised abundant life is now.

So you may ask, how do we account for the calamity of covid and the devastating disaster of a few weeks ago.  There are those among us who have encountered unspeakable loss and sorrow.  All things work together for good?  Abundant life?

No one desires or welcomes suffering, but if we are to become like Christ, can we expect to escape affliction?  Faith becomes owned through adversity.  “Weeping may tarry for the night but joy comes with the morning." Psalms 30:5