STOP AND THINK – Extraordinary afflictions are not always the punishment of extraordinary sins, but sometimes the trial of extraordinary graces. (Matthew Henry, 17th century English minister and author)
When really difficult times hit us, we are inclined to think that we must have really messed up to have deserved the trouble we’re in. And it may be true, of course, that we are suffering the consequences of our bad behavior. But that is certainly not always true. Difficult times may simply be the opportunity to trust God in a new way and experience his amazing grace.
But those who suffer he delivers in their suffering; he speaks to them in their affliction. (Job 36:15)