^“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, ¹⁷ so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
I am so grateful that God didn’t just place us on this earth and say, “Go! Figure it all out on your own.”  No, He didn’t do that.  In a sense we often do try to figure things out on our own, and He did give us free-will, but He did (and still does) have a plan in place for us.
The bible is God’s Instruction Book for Life. It doesn’t matter what joyous or tragic circumstance you have in your life, He gives us examples, encouragement, and so much more in The Holy Bible as to how to live.
This morning I was reminded of how appreciative I was last year knowing that when I turned to His word, I would instantly be comforted. I am so grateful that it wasn’t just a Sunday relationship with me and God.  I turned to Him daily!  Still do and always will.
You see, my Sunday school co-teacher sent me a text stating how many of the teens are having questions about “Why bad things happen?” and “Where is God in it all?” She sent me Lee Strobel’s discussion from biblegateway.com regarding “why God allows things to happen”.  My mind automatically went to thinking, “I remember journaling about this same question last year.”  I sat here in my comfy chair and read through almost every journal entry from June 2013.  Ugh…let’s just say that I’m glad I didn’t have my make-up on yet for church.  Tears were streaming down my face while I revisited those entries that God had given me to write those days after my mother-in-law’s unexpected death.  Get that?  “God had given me”.
God’s breath was felt in such a strong way. His words kept our family strong during a difficult time.  I was able to reflect on what was written and understand how so many people would inform me how those journal entries assisted them through various circumstances in their lives as well.  (To God be ALL the glory!)
This morning I was able to share scripture with our Sunday school girls and give a personal testimony. Between Kalyn’s own experience with surviving cancer and my testimony of what happened in our lives, I believe that we helped make a difference in those young ladies’ lives.  At least I sure pray that they had open ears, hearts, and minds to help them stand firm in Christ and be able to share scripture with others in need.
You know…you are NOT alone! Jesus even tells us that we WILL have trials and tribulations in life: “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  John 16:33 Can I get a “Whoop Whoop!”? He has already overcome the world.  Hold tight to Him, brothers and sisters.  He will show you glory to Him and joy to you in the end.
I pray God’s abundant love and much joy for y’all.
 
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