Day 23
Principle: The challenging circumstances in your life are the catalyst to get to your root problem.
Was the single mom’s life in 1Kings 17 without incident from then on? Hardly! “Some time later, the son of the woman who owned the house became ill. He grew worse and worse, and finally stopped breathing.” (1Kings 17:17, NIV) Now comes the bigger test!
She says to Elijah, “What do you have against me, man of God? Did you come to remind me of my sin and kill my son?” (1Kings 17:18, NIV) What is the root of this comment? Something in her past is obviously unresolved. She is still feeling guilty over a past sin. This reveals a priceless truth: when things seem to go wrong, your reaction will bring to the surface what God is really trying to get at in your life.
Whatever your challenging circumstance is, it is only the catalyst to get to the root problem. When the exasperated widow again questions Elijah, he obediently stretches out across the dead son and the boy is miraculously revived. God was not trying to torment her over past sins; He never does. He had chosen her desperate circumstances to reveal His loving heart toward her in an unforgettable way.
It is the same in our lives. God’s motive is always pure. His actions are designed for our greater good; His goal is always intended to bring healing and purpose to our lives.
Your circumstances are not designed to rout your fragile life, but rather to reveal God’s faithful heart. Every victory over fear, doubt, and unbelief today provides a mighty preparation for the fierce battles ahead.
- What challenging circumstances are tempting you with thoughts of doubt and despair?
As you look through Romans 5:3–5, ask the Lord what positives have come from suffering in your life.
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