“When sorrows come, they come not single spies. But in battalions” (Shakespeare, Hamlet: Act 4, Scene 5). Isn’t that often the way things seem to go? Perhaps you’ve shaken your head, perplexed at how yet another harsh and devastating turn of events has come your way.
I remember when my wife started having severe vision problems. When the specialist gave us the diagnosis of three brain tumors, we knew things were serious. I begged God not to let her go, promising to take care of her no matter what the outcome. I was trusting in God’s sovereignty, but I also was preparing to accept that things don’t always go as hoped. Thankfully, my wife came through with only minor problems, and we are humbled greatly at His good providence.
Jesus Himself told us to take heart when the troubles of this world come. But how do we do that when the surgery is not successful or when the cancer remains? What about when the bank account is drained, when the children rebel, or when life falls apart? We take heart by taking hold of Him.