Selwyn continues his discussion on God’s knowledge and wisdom. He is helping us understand why a loving God with perfect wisdom allows discomfort and pain to happen – especially to those who are His people.
He paraphases Romans 8:29, found in the Living Bible, as follows: “‘For from the very beginning God decided that those who came to him – and all along he knew who would – should become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters.’ God’s great energy and wisdom, working on behalf of all Christians, is directed to making us like His Son, Jesus Christ.” He goes on to say: God’s “wisdom will bring from every trial that comes our way something that will enrich our character and make us more like Jesus Christ.”
In those difficult times we can trust Jesus because we know that He loves us and wants the eternal best for us. We also know that He will never let the pain of these trials separate us from His love. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” In this case it is the temptation not to trust that God is always helping you through hard times.
What has helped you survive difficult times?
***
As we approach the end of this study on ‘The Character of God’ and we reflect on what Selwyn has written over the past two months – what has been the most significant issue for you?
God’s one great goal
Selwyn continues his discussion on God’s knowledge and wisdom. He is helping us understand why a loving God with perfect wisdom allows discomfort and pain to happen – especially to those who are His people.
He paraphases Romans 8:29, found in the Living Bible, as follows: “‘For from the very beginning God decided that those who came to him – and all along he knew who would – should become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters.’ God’s great energy and wisdom, working on behalf of all Christians, is directed to making us like His Son, Jesus Christ.” He goes on to say: God’s “wisdom will bring from every trial that comes our way something that will enrich our character and make us more like Jesus Christ.”
In those difficult times we can trust Jesus because we know that He loves us and wants the eternal best for us. We also know that He will never let the pain of these trials separate us from His love. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” In this case it is the temptation not to trust that God is always helping you through hard times.
What has helped you survive difficult times?
***
As we approach the end of this study on ‘The Character of God’ and we reflect on what Selwyn has written over the past two months – what has been the most significant issue for you?