When we face difficult circumstances, as Job did and as the Lord’s disciples did (Matthew 19:29), we must never forget that the Lord’s purpose is good and His long-term goal is our good – “eternal life” (Matthew 19:29).
What is to be our attitude to suffering? – “My son, do not despise the
Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord
disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in” (Proverbs 3:11-12).
Whether our suffering arises from unfavourable circumstances or
human hostility, we must never doubt that all of these things are under
the control of God and are used by Him to make us more obedient to Him
and more pleasing to Him.
What God did for His people, Israel, was very great. There is a striking contrast between their slavery in Egypt and their abundance in the promised land. God had multiplied His blessing upon them, just as Jesus did when He turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). If the blessing is to be maintained and increased, we must honour the Lord. We must cry to Him for blessing: "Hear my prayer, O God, listen to the words of my mouth." We must call upon Him with faith: "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the One who sustains me" (Psalm 54:2,4).
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