When trouble comes, a Christian’s first instinct is to ask God to deliver them.
Jesus modeled another response:
“Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason [to die for the sins of the world] I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name” (John 12:27).
Observations:
1. It’s not wrong to have a troubled heart in the face of suffering. Jesus did.
2. It is always right to take trouble as a signal to connect with our Father in heaven.
3. Sometimes suffering is God’s good plan, although it may not be immediately obvious.
4. A desire to glorify God is more important than wanting deliverance from suffering.
5. It’s not wrong to ask to be delivered from suffering. Later, at Gethsemane, Jesus repeatedly prayed, “Let this cup pass from Me…nevertheless not My will but Yours be done.”
Lois
May 25, 2019 at 6:52 pmPastor Bill. It was my constant prayer the first 24 hours. Lord let this cup pass from me but your will be done! Over and over again I prayed the same prayer. ThebLord gave me that devotion before Easter as I was preparing myself for Easter. I trusted the Lord then and will, I hope for the rest of my days.
Dr. Bill Rudd
May 25, 2019 at 9:48 pmLois, God has really used you to bless others and bring glory to Jesus through this horrible time. We’re so proud of you and praying for you constantly.