SCRIPTURE

Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. - James 1:17 NLT

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PRAYER

Father God,

You are the giver of good. Our current circumstances can’t be traced back to your wrath or judgement. You created a harmonious universe. Disease and death were not part of your design. Their roots can be found in a garden, in that first act of human rebellion. You didn’t create suffering, but you do allow it. You don’t leave us alone in our suffering, nor is it ever in vain. You use it and, in turn, give good and perfect gifts both in the midst of our struggle, and when we emerge on the other side. Help me see your goodness revealed in your presence, wisdom, forgiveness, healing, and drawing me nearer to you. Remind me that you are not the proprietor of blame. You own perfection—grace, mercy, love, wholeness, peace, faithfulness.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

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JOURNAL REFLECTION

Perhaps the biggest roadblock for people to overcome in believing in God is the suffering they see in the world. How could a good God allow it? But he does. How has God used your suffering, past and present, to reveal his good? What do good and perfect gifts from God look like in this world? In your life?

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CALL TO ACTION

When we hear the word “suffering,” positive thoughts and memories don’t come to mind. Our world is filled with trials, pain, grief, loss, disease, trauma, and a host of other troubles. As followers of Christ, however, we can take solace in knowing God is not only walking with us through all we face, but he is also fortifying us through our suffering, and he is working everything out for our ultimate good. Today, listen to the worship song, “Goodness of God,” and reflect on this powerful truth.