Through It All

Through It All

(Read Isaiah 43:1-3)

Stunned, Briana stared at her grandfather. She had just learned that Grandpa Jackson had a terminal disease, and the doctor could not even promise that surgery would help. “You’re not really going to die, are you?” she whispered.

Briana’s grandfather didn’t answer immediately. “That’s something only God knows for sure,” he managed at last. “Cancer of this type is usually fatal, but whatever is God’s will is what will take place.”

“But, Grandpa,” Briana protested, “that’s not fair. Grandma needs you. We all need you, and . . .” Her voice trailed off.

“Your grandma and I have come to the place where we just want God’s will to be done, whatever it is,” said Grandpa. “We’re hoping you can come to that place, too.”

“I’m not sure I can,” Briana said honestly. “It seems all wrong.”

Briana’s grandfather shook his head. “No, honey. God never makes any mistakes. I love you very much, yet it may be God’s will for me to leave you.” Grandpa smiled at Briana. “Whenever it seems to be more than you can handle, remember that God loves you even more than I do, and he will be with you forever.”

Briana looked away, thinking about her grandfather’s words. Sure, she knew God was in control of everything. And she knew God never made any mistakes, but . . .

Suddenly Briana stopped. What had Grandpa said? “God loves you and will be with you forever.” With determination in her heart, Briana spoke silently to the Lord. “Help me to trust you for the outcome, no matter what.” RIJ

HOW ABOUT YOU?

How do you react when really hard things come into your life—perhaps loss of a loved one through death or divorce, perhaps an illness of your own? Do you get bitter and angry? Or do you remember that God has promised to go with his children through every difficult time? Trust him to keep you—you’re not alone! And remember that he never makes mistakes.

God Is with You

MEMORIZE:

“When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2