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Day 4: Do You Believe That God Owes You Something?
The natural reaction to hardships is to say, "Lord, is this the way You treat Your own? I thought You cared for me, but I was wrong. I can't love a God like that." It is a tragic misunderstanding.
My concern is that many believers apparently feel God owes them smooth sailing, or at least a full explanation (and perhaps an apology) for the trials they encounter. We must never forget that He, after all, is God. He is majestic and holy and sovereign. He is accountable to no one. He is not our servant; we are His. And our reason for existence is to glorify and honor Him. Even so, sometimes He performs mighty miracles on our behalf. Sometimes He chooses to explain His action in our lives. Sometimes His presence is as real as if we had encountered Him face to face. But at other times when nothing makes sense—when what we are going through is "not fair," when we feel all alone in God's waiting room—He simply says, "Trust Me!"
Just Between You and God
- Do you believe that God is working all things for your good? (Romans 8:28) If it feels like He is not, ask Him to show you how this trial could be a blessing—and look for His answer.
- Are you able to trust God when it appears that everything is falling apart? That’s often the hardest time to lean on the Lord, but call out to Him for strength and ask that His will be done.
- Do you believe that God owes you something? If so, ask Him to remove your expectations and help you to rest in His Word.
Pray These Words
Heavenly Father, thank You that You have plans for me that are for my good and Your glory. Even when I can’t see all the answers, help me to trust in You and Your providence with every part of my being. Please remove my expectations and fill me with Your peace that passes all understanding. Amen.
Related Resource:
God doesn’t owe us an easy existence. So how can we trust Him in challenging times? Ron and Trina Alleyne explore how the Lord works when life becomes difficult and overwhelming.
About this Plan
Life doesn’t always unfold the way we expect. When pain and confusion strike, it can feel as if God has forgotten us—and stopped making sense altogether. This 10-day series from the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute draws on Dr. Dobson’s biblical wisdom to help you find hope and strength during life’s most difficult seasons. Discover why even in the darkest valleys, God is still at work—drawing you closer to Him and deepening your faith.
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