Job 2:10b – We take the good days from God — why not also the bad days? (MSG)

When I went through a few rough patches a number of years ago, I started reading the book of Job for answers. Why me, Lord? Why is this happening to me? How do I get through this?

The answer that God gave to Job was that it was not for him to question the Creator of the universe. God is mystery. Ours is not to wonder why things happen. Ours is to stand firm on the truth that God loves us and is always with us no matter what happens.

These days, we are all having to contend with the pandemic in one way or another. Although impacts vary widely, no one is untouched.

This year is so different from previous winter seasons that I endured alone, when not many people could relate to my particular challenges or grasp my desperation. For the most part, I suffered in silence. I couldn't make sense of my life becoming completely derailed again and again, while everyone else around me seemingly led charmed lives. I felt like such a loser.

I was able to push through only because I focused on strengthening my faith. I talked and listened to God, read my Bible and other spiritual writings, attended church, and listened to praise and worship music. I "winterized" myself so that I could press on and persevere in my uphill battles.

For most people, the pandemic is a really tough winter season, and understandably so. But that is not my own personal experience. I am happily retired and live in a place where COVID-19 numbers are low. I don't find restrictions an undue hardship, and I am blessed by the huge silver lining of having my daughter and wee grandson sheltering with me. I am more than happy to oblige a toddler who loves to be tickled. He has a merry laugh that is pure joy.

I marvel at how God has given me a summer season, while so many others are wintering. It underscores for me how individual and unique each of our lives is, and how surprising life can be. None of us leads a cookie-cutter life. We all go through different seasons at different times. We take the good days from God, and we must also take the bad. Asking "why" we have bad days is futile. The right question is the "how" — how are we supposed to get through them?

I believe that the one and only answer is to know God more. He is Who He says He is in His Word. Read it and see for yourself. Talk to Him and listen to Him. Take His outstretched hand. Stand back and watch Him move in miraculous ways and in His perfect timing. Walk by faith one day at a time. Your journey and testimony could ultimately be one for the ages.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to know You more. Give us wisdom and discernment to see You at work in the world and in our lives. We also ask for opportunities to encourage others by sharing our faith and making You known. Thank You that You love us. We love You right back. Amen.

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About the author:

Helen Morrison <hmorriso@gmail.com>
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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