He is there.....

Former presidential hopeful John Edwards drifted away from his faith when he left home to attend college. His faith became a matter of routine. He attended church, but had no personal, vibrant, resonant faith. Then, tragically, his 16 year old son died. Afterward, his faith in God "came roaring back" and hasn't left him since.

Sometimes struggle makes us aware of just how much we depend on God: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)

Whatever trouble we're going through, God is always with us. Paul himself was been "perplexed" as to why he was suffering, but he knew that he could have faith (trust) in God. Since Jesus suffered, as followers of Jesus sometimes we too will sometimes suffer, for "no servant is greater than his master" (John 13:16). How great a promise God gives us that he will never abandon us!

What is troubling you today? Our natural instinct is to obssess over the "Why?" question. Instead, why not try to focus on the "What?" question: "What shall I do next?" And leave the rest to God, who is our refuge, gives us strength in times of trouble, and gave His life so we will live.

"I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." (Phillipians 4:13)