Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Why do bad things happen to "Good People" (Part 1)?

If you read my blog on Monday, I told you about a list of people that I know that are going through really difficult times. The list has grown since then. I am happy to say that God has given me comfort and reminded of a study I did years ago. I thought that I would share it. I will be breaking it down into parts.

Reason #1:

1. To test us; help us grow closer to God

Difficulties in the Bible were often a test of our response to them and our faithfulness to God through the difficult times. They also were meant to help us grow closer to God

James 1:2-4--My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

I Peter 1:6-7--Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

Romans 5:35--And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

There is the old saying, what doesn't destroy us makes us stronger. As Christians, we have God's strength on our side and He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. He has also promised not to give us more than we can bear. He has also promised to give us the strength we need!

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

In conclusion: Difficulties can give us an opportunity to draw closer to God and to learn of His great comfort and strenghth. They also give us an opportunity to be a testimony to others.