Life is Both Hard and Good
Bible Readings
Take a few minutes to read the Bible verses listed and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in how this verse applies to you this week.
Memory Verse
“I will give you treasures hidden in dark and secret places. Then you will know that I, the Lord God of Israel, have called you by name.” (CEV)
The moving truck’s doors slammed shut, and Trevor watched as his best friend’s family drove away forever. Sadly, he walked into his house and slumped onto the couch. Who would he ride bikes with or play video games with now?
Above the TV was a poster with the words “God works all things together for good. Romans 8:28.” Trevor scoffed. His best friend moving away wasn’t good. Where is God right now? Why is life so hard?
Have you ever felt like that? God understands those feelings of disappointment. In fact, both Isaiah 45:3 and 2 Corinthians 4:7-12 warn us that not everything is going to be easy. But, the verses also tell us that when life is hard, God is still there for us. In fact, he’s hidden gifts for us in those hard times to remind us that he has called us by name, that we haven’t been left on our own, and that we will get through it.
That doesn’t mean you need to be happy when life isn’t going the way you want it to. It’s okay to be discouraged, sad, or angry. But, when you are struggling, try looking for these gifts, because they can make your situation seem brighter.
Sometimes it’s not easy to see him or his presents. For example, all Trevor sees is that his best friend moved away. But in a few weeks, he might be really good friends with his new neighbor. Maybe he and his best friend will love sending each other letters. Or he might grow closer to his other friends. Or perhaps it will be something else.
If you take a look around your life, what treasures do you see?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for placing treasures in my life. Please help me find them, and when I do see them, help me to remember that you gave them to me. Amen.Related Resources
Christina Van Starkenburg
Christina Van Starkenburg is an award-winning freelance writer and author of The Key Thief and One Tiny Turtle: A Story You Can Colour. In her free time, she enjoys reading, dancing, and exploring the world with her husband and three kids. Visit her at www.christinavanstarkenburg.com to read more.