January 27th
Oh, This is Bad!
I want to write first of all THAT “all bad things are not bad. I know for a fact that this is true. It has been proven in my life many times as well as in the lives of others.
One classic example that I have shared with people relates to a fishing fleet working out of Newfoundland. As most every day the fishing boats went out, however, during the day a storm developed and by evening those in the village became quite alarmed and worried inasmuch as the boats had not returned. The wives and their families of the missing sailors were beside themselves.
Then, on top of that, one of the houses actually caught fire. Since the men were all out fishing the children and wives just looked on in horror as the house actually burned to the ground.
When day came there was shouting on top of shouting because the fishing fleet was safe in the harbor. One wife did not rejoice as much as the others as she told her husband of the loss of their home.
Then, believe it or not, a huge smile appeared on his face. He explained that a fire of “unknown origin” actually led them safe through the storm and to home.
I think that is what Paul had in mind when he wrote, “All things work together for good to those that love the Lord.” (Romans 8:28)
The prayer
God, in the name of Jesus, I lift up to you this reader. If they are going through a difficult time – let’s call it a hot, fiery ordeal or time – I ask that through the heart eyes of faith they would believe that not all bad things are bad things. Give them the courage to “stay the course” so that in the days ahead they can look back and say – God, you were IN that happening.
Amen.