I Samuel 4:17
‘Then the one who brought the news replied, “Israel has fled before the Philistines and there has also been a great slaughter among the people, and your two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God has been taken.’
This was the worst news possible. Israel had lost the battle, 30,000 soldiers died, the Ark was captured and the high priests sons also died. This is storm, this is the valley of the shadow of death. This level of calamity is rare. We will have difficulties, but this was different. Kind of like a 50 year storm.
What was David’s response? “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, You are with me”, Psalm 23. The dark times will be present, but so is the Lord. That’s the difference. Isaiah 43:2 says, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, and the flames will not set you ablaze.”
Difficult times are woven throughout all our lives. Ephesians 6:13 speaks of the evil day, “Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.”
We have an enemy of our soul, the devil and his demons. Just like plotting generals, they seek to surprise us with troubles and temptations. These can come in the form of thoughts, circumstances or other people.
These can be very troubling and disappointing. The Lord will bring us through. It takes time. The circumstance or it’s affect can last months or years.
These difficult times usually bring about major shifts in thinking and attitude. Just like Noah’s flood changed geography and weather patterns forever. So, the Lord can use these times to bring about big changes.
Through all of this we be comforted with the fact that God is with us and isn’t out of control. Romans 8:28 tells us that He will work all for good. I’m not blaming God or trying to minimize a circumstance. Somehow, He’s got us in His loving hand and it will be ok. While life can be a storm, He brings peace within.
Lord, thank You that we can trust You with our life circumstances. Thank You that You’re not shocked or worried. Help us to have confidence and peace within. You’ve got us, even in the evil day.