The Upper Room Devotion for Monday, June 17th, 2024, was written by Jacob Capone of Texas.
Scripture
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. 8 It will be a healing for your flesh and a refreshment for your body. 9 Honor the Lord with your substance and with the first fruits of all your produce; 10 then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.
Proverbs 3:5-10 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
Eight years ago, when I learned that my younger brother had been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, many questions flooded my mind. What is diabetes? Is my little brother going to be able to live a normal life? How could this happen? I didn't know what to think. I was filled with anxiety and fear. Experiencing a family member's suffering was new for me, and I was afraid. Thankfully, after three full days in the hospital, my brother was released to return home. But this disease would stay with him for the rest of his life.
Looking back now on that event, I can't help but wonder why God allows the ones we love to suffer. Solomon's words from Proverbs 3:5 come to mind. It is a call to realize that even in the hard times, painful memories, and terrible experiences, we can trust in the Lord who can use those hard times to shape us. Even in the toughest moments, nothing can take us out of God's hands. In the hard times of our lives we are called to "trust in the Lord" (Prov. 3:5)
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
Hardships and struggles challenge our faith, especially when those we love endure suffering and pain. Jacob's reflection offers us a moment to be reminded of the goodness of God, despite the obstacles we might be facing. God walks with us, and our loved ones, through the valleys of difficult diagnoses, wayward children, addicted parents, untimely deaths, and loss of employment. Whatever our hardship might be, we can be confident and trust that God is with us.
Author's Prayer
O God, give us strength to fight the fears and worries which often overwhelm us. Give us hope, and reassure us that we are in your hands. Amen.
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