‘From Eden … to the Cross!’

Like many today, Job thought he knew all he needed to know about God … then God took him “deeper.” It is easy to talk about wanting to know God better, to go “deeper” in your relationship with God, but few seem to understand that the road of suffering and trials is the path that gets you there! Because of our sinful nature we are born with the world on our minds and in our hearts. The “flesh,” the old nature of sin, desires the things of the world and an easy path to happiness. Along the way it may offer a “nod” to God to acknowledge He is there, and in a time of trial may even cry out to “God” for help, but entering into a life-changing, all-consuming relationship with its Creator is not something the flesh is able or willing to do. As long as we live in this world, the temptation to satisfy the desires of the old nature continue to distract even those in whom the Spirit of God is at work to sanctify us. By the power of God’s Spirit believers WANT to please God! Yet, it is in life’s struggles, when called to face suffering and trials, that the greatest amount of spiritual growth takes place in the lives of God’s children. Job is an example of both what to do and what not to do when enduring suffering and trials. He started out well, but then began to question God … until God reminded Job and his “friends” that HE rules over all the earth, and He always does what is right! For those who know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, the path of spiritual growth goes through suffering and trials, requiring the repentance and faith that is produced by the Spirit within us. Thank God for His abiding grace, and rest in the assurance that in the midst of the storm, HE will hold you fast!!