Why does God seem to let us ‘stew’ in our difficulties?

I am reminded that the toughest of meats becomes palatable in a ‘stew’. Time also makes stews tastier. From this we can learn that our difficulties ‘soften’ our hearts toward God and put life into perspective. Time on earth is very short in comparison to eternity. The next life will make our present sufferings seem insignificant. Paul expressed it this way: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18)

Our infinite God has a very long-range view. The book of Romans tells us that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28) Israel spent four hundred and thirty years in bondage in Egypt waiting for God to bring deliverance and fulfil His plan. He delivered Israel and He will deliver you. When you are “in the stew”, tell yourself that you are going to be a “gloriously better person” when you are through it. God is definitely at work in you both in the good times and the bad. What will the next stage of your spiritual journey look like? It could be WOW!

Ps. Peter Earle