Abiding With God in the Heartache and the JoyPrøve

Trust and trial We all are familiar with Job’s story. He practically had everything taken away from him. Disaster often comes in waves as one calamity after another can befall a family or even the world as the COVID-19 pandemic has brought every country to its knees. May our first response to adversity be like Job’s, and our first response to blessing be worship. Job held his possessions lightly. His response was to worship God and not lay blame. Whether He’s adding or subtracting, we can rest in God’s goodness because the bible is full of examples of His faithfulness. When we fail to live up to Job’s standard, may we seek forgiveness and rejoice in the Father’s grace. May we also choose our friends carefully, especially during hard times. In such times, we can struggle to find words to pray. Our friends can carry us through with prayer, practical assistance, words of encouragement, and unfailing love. Prayer Thank you, dear Father, for friends who reflect your love. Please, help me in becoming that friend to others. To be present and willing to walk alongside the suffering, the hurting, and the broken. Amen.