Mighty God and Hardships
Scripture Reading — John 16:28-33
We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.
—Romans 8:28
In this world we will have trouble. Jesus himself says so. Being a Christian is not a guarantee of pain-free living. We can expect to face hardship because of our relationship with Christ. And the important question for each of us is “Will hardship drive me from or toward God?”
None of us is great enough, strong enough, or wise enough. We cannot control the forces of nature or other people. We live in a broken world.
But Jesus has come to us as Mighty God, and he has overcome the world. He also promises us his presence: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). And he promises his all sustaining grace: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Today’s verse promises that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” But in the face of life’s pain and tragedies, the natural question is “Does God really mean &lsquoall things’?” Yes! Notice that it does not say all things are good but that God can bring good out of all things, even things that Satan intends for evil.
When your heart is broken and the world crushes you, may the peace of Mighty God sustain you as you draw comfort and strength from him.
Thank you, Lord, for being our refuge and strength, our ever-present help in times of trouble. May your grace and presence sustain us as you work for our good in all situations. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Calvin Aardsma
Calvin Aardsma has been a pastor for more than thirty years. He has served churches in Indiana, Oregon, and the Chicago area. Currently, he is a pastor of Bethel Christian Reformed Church in Lansing, Illinois. He also serves on the board of the Ugandan Orphanage Relief Fund. Cal and his wife, Sandy, have four children and five grandchildren.
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