TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

DEVOTIONAL

by Elder Chris Beltran

Nothing that happens to us, including difficult circumstances, changes who God is. If God loved us before, He loves us still. He answers prayers and provides for our needs, not necessarily for our wants. God is good, not because of what He can give us, but because of who He is.

Sometimes, in difficult situations, He would intervene supernaturally, especially in cases where we see people miraculously healed while medical science has given up. However, in many situations that only God knows, He allows difficult circumstances as (1) consequence of sin (e.g., because of adultery, the spouse left), (2) discipline (e.g., in the case of King David committing adultery and murder), (3) test to our faith (e.g., in the case of Abraham and Habakkuk), (4) character development (i.e., a strong character is developed not in good times, but during difficult ones), (5) opportunities to witness and glorify Him, and (6) equipping (i.e., those who underwent same difficult situations and experienced God’s grace can understand and comfort others who are in the same circumstances).

In times of tragedy, anxiety, and grief, it is tempting to turn away from God because of bitterness and disappointment. If God is our loving Father, why does He allow His children to suffer terribly? Remember, grief can turn us toward God in faith and hope, too. Since God is our loving Father, won’t He help us through these days of despair and pain?

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we find great comfort in knowing that nothing can separate us from Your love in Christ Jesus. We understand that even in difficult circumstances, Your love remains unwavering. Help us, Lord, to trust in Your goodness, even when we face challenges and tragedies. May we turn to You in faith and hope during times of despair, knowing that You are our loving Father who helps us through it all. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.