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The Thinking Well
Jun. 4, 2008
When GOD Doesn't Make Sense
This excerpt from James Dobson's book describes my life and some of those around me at this time:
"This man (Job) of towering strength who had coped with sickness, death, and catastrophic loss soon face a circumstance that threatened to overwhelm him. It emanated, strangely enough, from his inability to find GOD. He went through a time when the presence of the Almighty was hidden from view. More important, GOD wouldn't talk to him." (pg. 16, WGDMS)
One friend going through a fiery trial right now has said this over and over. I, now in my own trials, have encountered this same thing. The circumstances are no fun, downright icky, but it's the silence from GOD that makes it unbearable. I can say that I truly understand now. This place is very isolating, very stifling. People don't want to join you in your misery that you can't find your way out of. I follow a lot of CaringBridge sites, and I hear this sentiment over and over. The loneliness, the agony of grieving alone. Even when you are surrounded by people, you are alone. People can surround you, but no one can take your pain away. Only you and GOD can work through it.
I don't know when my time in the fiery furnace will end. It doesn't feel as though it will end any time soon. But if I could encourage you, I would say to pay attention to what Job's "friends" did, and NOT do it. Be the hand of compassion to your friend. Be the shoulder they can cry on. Don't be a stopwatch telling them it's time to move on. Be the arms of GOD they so desperately need to feel. May your words be as honey, sweet and soothing, always truthful, timely, tactful. Be willing to get your hands dirty. Jesus did. |
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Jun. 5, 2008 - The Wilderness
Chorus:
In the wilderness
In the wilderness
He calls his sons and daughters
To the wilderness
And he gives grace sufficient
to survive any test
And that's the painful purpose of the wilderness