Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.
1 Peter 4:12-13 (TM)
1. GOD USES PROBLEMS TO DIRECT ME
We make our own plans, but the LORD decides where we will go.
Proverbs 16:9 (CEV)
Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways.
Proverbs 20:30 (GN)
You let the distress bring you to God, not drive you from him. The result was all gain, no loss.
2 Corinthians 7:9 (TM)
Question to ourselves:
Where is this problem leading me?
2. GOD USES PROBLEMS TO INSPECT ME
But I, the Lord, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.
Jeremiah 17:10 (NLT)
Humans are satisfied with whatever looks good; but God probes for what is good.
Proverbs 16:2 (TM)
Don't forget how the LORD your God has led you through the desert for the past forty years. He wanted to find out if you were truly willing to obey him and depend on him.
Deuteronomy 8:2 (CEV)
Question to ourselves:
What does this problem reveal about me?
3. GOD USES PROBLEMS TO CORRECT ME
God corrects all of His children, and if He doesn't correct you, then you don't really belong to Him... God corrects us for our own good, because He wants us to be holy, as He is.
Hebrews 12:8-10 (CEV)
Consider yourself fortunate if God All-Powerful chooses to correct you.
Job 5:17 (CEV)
...it was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me to pay attention to Your laws.
Psalm 119:71 (LB)
Question to ourselves:
What is this problem teaching me?
4. GOD USES PROBLEMS TO PROTECT ME
And at this very moment, God deeply desires to lead you from trouble.
Job 36:16 (CEV)
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good...
Genesis 50:20 (NIV)
Questions to ourselves:
How is this problem protecting me? What is the problem preventing from happening in my life?
5. GOD USES PROBLEMS TO PERFECT ME
After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who calls you to share His eternal glory in union with Christ, will Himself perfect you and give you firmness, strength, and a sure foundation.
1 Peter 5:10 (TEV)
We can rejoice when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us - they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it...
Romans 5:3-4 (LB)
Question to ourselves:
How is this problem making me more like Christ?
