“Living in the Presence of God in Adversity” April 3
Probably few of us could have foreseen the damage an invisible virus would do to our economy, sense of security, and national attitudes before 2019. And while we all know there are aggressive, hostile nations in the world, few expected Russia to brazenly invade her neighbor Ukraine. Even fewer would have expected that war to go on for over two years. Add to that rising inflation, concerns about our border, contentious politics, and growing hostility toward people of faith and there is much that could tempt us to worry.
Yet, none of this was a surprise to God. And if we understand His sovereignty, we must admit that He not only knew each situation was coming, He allowed, possibly even ordained, all these circumstances. And all that has happened as a result, including our responses, has happened in the presence of God, coram Deo, literally before His face.
As we contemplate that fact, we should also remember that what God allows and ordains in our lives serves His purposes. He has general purposes for us all, but He also has specific plans and purposes for each of us. Those purposes are always for our good and His glory. And those two are never opposed to one another. They work in perfect harmony. So, how can understanding these things help us respond better in times of adversity?
