“For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.” (Hebrews 4:10 KJV)
” God has a purpose!” Mrs. Jones said as I stood by her daughter’s ICU bed. She and I had discussed the “why” question nearly every visit, certainly numerous times in addition to spiritual matters.
He daughter had been in the hospital for several months and mom had been by her side constantly for the last 30 days. The daughter had undergone 15 successive surgeries and was scheduled for the 16th in two days. She seemed to grow worse instead of better.
Both mom and daughter were Christians, yet mom was beginning to seriously discuss the issue with God. Why had he not answered the prayer of faith? Why did her daughter have to suffer this way? Why didn’t God heal her daughter instantly?
Well, God didn’t answer immediately, but simply allowed her to understand about living by faith. She began to realize that some illnesses are allowed “that the Son of God might be glorified thereby” (John 4:4). It kind of shocked her, because a mother’s heart cries out for her child’s wellbeing. It was difficult for mom to watch her daughter suffer, even for the glory of God. But God brought peace and comfort, “Just trust me,” he said.
That’s what she did. She mentally and figuratively placed her daughter into God’s loving hands. Despite the faith-testing circumstances, she took God at his word. She forgot about her needs and desires, her circumstances back home. In ceaseless, faith and prayer, she focused on God and her daughter. What started as a heart-rending situation became an experience of precious communion with God.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace in the midst of our confusion. Empower us with faith in your life-giving, resurrecting power. In the name of Jesus I pray. AMEN
Be courageous and rest in God,