Is it Possible That God Has Sent The Recent Problems to Cause Us to Look to Him?

Q: It’s been shocking to witness the events of the past several weeks. I would have never guessed that a virus could sweep across the world and essentially close it down. Is it possible that God has sent the recent problems to turn our attention from what’s important to us, causing us to look to Him? — A.C.

A: Life is a journey — although sometimes we forget it. Life becomes so hectic, and we become so preoccupied with our immediate concerns that we don’t step back and see the whole picture. For many people life is a constant struggle just to survive. Others have everything they could ever want, yet remain unsatisfied and unfulfilled.

Some see their own life’s journey as a series of unrelated events — some good, some bad — strung together like beads on a string. Others feel trapped like a leaf in a rushing stream, tossed about by circumstances beyond control. Many people may never have stopped to think about the road they are traveling.

But God didn’t intend for our journey through life to be this way. Instead, He meant for it to be filled with purpose, whether in good times or bad times. He also wants to guide us as we make decisions and to give us hope for the future. Most of all, He desires to make this journey with us.

Sometimes we get tired of the burdens of life brought on by sickness, isolation, or despair in the midst of overwhelming problems. Sometimes life touches one person with a bouquet and another with a thorn bush. But the first may find a wasp in the flowers and the second may discover roses among the thorns.

If you will believe in the Lord Jesus and follow Him, you will learn that He goes before you every step of the way. “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps” (Proverbs 16:9).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2020 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.