July 21 Devotion: What We Know In Times of Suffering

22).  It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed; because his compassions fail not.  23).  They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

                       LAMENTATIONS 3:22-23 (KJV)

The Lord reveals some things to us and leaves others shrouded in mystery. So we may not know why specific disasters occur, but there are biblical truths that assure us the Lord can be trusted even in times of great suffering. Because of Scripture, we can be certain that ... 

• God is sovereign (See Psalms. 103:19). Nothing in heaven or on earth is outside His awareness and ultimate authority. Even when we don’t understand His ways, we can trust His character.

  
  

• The Lord loves people and desires their salvation. Giving His Son for the salvation of the world proves beyond a doubt that He loves each person. His love remains constant, even when we can’t feel it or struggle to accept it.

  
  

• God can bring redemption from tragedy. Though we can’t fully comprehend what He’s doing in each situation, He promises to work all things—even disasters—for the good of those who love Him (See Romans 8:28). Suffering often awakens people to their need for God and stirs believers to deeper faith and compassion.

  
  

The One who loves us perfectly is present with us, working according to His purposes whether circumstances are dark or bright. Knowing this should fill us with hope, even in the midst of crisis.

He is faithful, and His promises are true.

-IBC