The Promise of His Presence

Spring is in the air, and yet, there are concerns that we carry with us - as if the cold winds of winter threaten to never leave. 

Our granddaughter's kidneys continue to fail, and things will get worse before they get better as she awaits a kidney transplant. And there are other concerns on our minds - problems all across the globe, in our neighborhoods, and inside our homes. For we are not promised a problem-free life. 

Likely every person on this earth has some form of trial that they are in the midst of. If not now, they will have. And the longer we live, the more we are in need. For there is pain all around.

"But the gospel is not ultimately a defense from pain and suffering; rather, it is the message of God's rescue through pain." (Glorious Ruin)

And the pain we experience has a way 

of pulling our hearts towards God. 

Our need pulls us to Him. 

As I am reading through Fifty Reasons Why Jesus Came to Die by John Piper, (focusing deeper on Him during these weeks leading up to Easter Sunday), I am receiving some deeper insight into familiar words. As with these words (above) from Romans ...

It's the "all things" that catches my attention. We know that this does not refer to giving us all things that make for a perfect life, free from pain and problems ... for this world is fallen. A problem-free life is in our future home.

"It means that He will give us all things that are good for us. All things that we really need in order to be conformed to the image of His Son. ... God will meet every real need, including the ability to rejoice in suffering when many felt needs do not get met." (John Piper)

In this life filled with the good and the lovely, as well as with pain and tears, we are promised all things that we need. All that we need as we walk through trials. All that we need as we grieve, as we sorrow ... everything that we need to walk through this life. And this is a breath of fresh spring air ... a promise of His Presence. 

Click for more posts on this topic ...
Held Secure: His Love in Times of Trial

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