Pete was born into a wildlifeloving family. He was still in diapers when his father, Kyle, would bundle him, his older brother, Andrew, and his older sister, Susan, into the family’s pickup for a day of fishing. Even Pete’s mom, Linda, went along.
Pete grew into “the spittin’ image”of his dad. When Pete was old enough to pick up a gun, Kyle showed him how to handle it safely. After achieving his rank of Eagle Scout, Pete graduated Salutatorian from high school and then completed his university education. Years earlier, his parents had graduated from that same university.
During his higher education years, Pete was an active athlete. During this time, he met his wife. Sadly, however, their marriage failed, and he moved back with his parents.
Just before Christmas one year, a fire destroyed nearly half of the family home. They all made it out safely, but in a flash, thirty years of memories were reduced to ashes.
Within one month after the fire, Pete was found dead in their temporary house. After a shopping trip, Linda and Kyle returned home, finding Pete’s lifeless body. Gone was their precious son! A tragic loss! Twice, within sixty days, this Christian family was stunned with grief !
How could this happen? Where was God? Why,God?
Some would blame God. Others might never emotionally recover. Still, others find comfort, strength, and God’s loving, caring, saving grace amid the deep pain. How would you respond? How painful is your life?
Since creation’s beginning, people have faced loss and tragedy.
The first parents, Adam and Eve, suffered the death of their youngest son,Abel. He was murdered by his older brother, Cain! Noah lost his home when God sent a flood of Biblical proportions! Noah knew that his neighbors were perishing. Sin brings death (Romans 6:23)! You can read about it in your Bible (Genesis 6-9).
By faith, Abraham left his family home; during his journey, he feared death – twice! He’s known for offering up his only son, Isaac. Abraham was called “a friend of God”(James 2:23). You can read about his life in the book of Genesis and a summary of his life in the book of Hebrews, chapter 11.
Godly people suffer! Look at Jesus! The apostles were all executed or imprisoned. However… “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him” ( James 1:12).
How painful is your life? Always remember that God is with you, caring for you, even in life’s most difficult moments! (1 Peter 5:7)