It's here: Part 9 of the 9 part series - how to get prayers answered
The Rhythm of The Prophets Part II - D18
DAILY DEVOTIONAL
10/18/20262 min read
God Is Good When Life Isn't
“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him.”
— Nahum 1:7, NKJV
Imagine living under the constant threat of a powerful nation known for its cruelty. The people of Judah understood that fear. Assyria had devastated nations, destroyed Israel's northern kingdom, and threatened Jerusalem. Yet in the middle of Nahum's message concerning Nineveh, God gives His people a beautiful assurance: “The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble.” The danger was real, and the suffering of those oppressed by Assyria could not be dismissed. Still, God wanted His people to know that His goodness had not disappeared because evil seemed powerful.
We often connect God's goodness to the condition of our lives. When prayers are answered, relationships are flourishing, and our families are well, we readily declare that God is good. But what happens when the diagnosis is frightening, the marriage ends, the loved one dies, or the answer we've been praying for never comes? Does God somehow become less good? Jesus stood beside the tomb of Lazarus and wept, even though He knew resurrection was moments away. He entered fully into the grief of those He loved. His tears remind us that God's goodness is present even in moments when our hearts are breaking.
Nahum also tells us that God knows those who trust in Him. He knows the weight you carry, the tears you hide, and the questions you struggle to put into words. The Savior who wept at a graveside understands the sorrow of the human heart. Could it be that we've been looking for evidence of God's goodness in the absence of trouble while overlooking His presence with us in the middle of it? Jesus has never promised that following Him would spare us every painful experience, but He has given us Himself. And there is no safer place for a wounded heart than in the care of the One who loves it.
Bring a painful or disappointing circumstance to Jesus today. Tell Him honestly how you feel, and ask Him to help you recognize His presence and goodness even while the situation remains unresolved.
Scripture Promise:
“The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.” — Psalm 34:18, NKJV
Prayer:
Father, though evil is all around us, help us to know that you are good and that evil will not prevail. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
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