written by Louis Sacran
In the midst of pain and anguish, we must answer some predictable, yet weighty questions. Where is God? What is He doing? Is God mad at me, or is He punishing me?
These questions are all too real in the heart and mind of the sufferer as he or she seeks to make sense out of a difficult, painful situation. Our answers to these questions will often make us, or break us, in the midst of life’s storms.
In 1 Peter 1:5, Peter encourages those who are suffering that they are “kept by the power of God, through faith.” The Greek word for kept means to guard or protect. When we are enduring intense suffering, it is common to wonder if we can endure the pain and anguish and remain mentally and emotionally intact on the other side.
Peter reassures us that by faith we have access to God’s protective power. Philippians 4:7 gets even more specific when Paul says, “And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds.” This passage assumes our hearts and minds are in need of protection. As we try to make sense out of life, we tend to do that through how we feel (heart) and how we think (mind).
So, how will God guard your heart and mind? Through believing the truth about God and how He relates to His children. Consider these five realities about God. Use them to help answer the questions we asked in the opening paragraph.
- Isaiah 43:1-3 – I am with you.
- Hebrews 13:5 – I will never leave you.
- Romans 8:31 – I am for you.
- Psalm 23:6 – My goodness and mercy are pursuing you.
- Lamentations 3:22-23 – My mercies and compassions never fail; they are new every day.
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