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I thought it might be helpful to table a couple of general thoughts. They are not intended to focus on any particular instance where life has seemed to deal someone a bad hand.
Nonetheless, the thoughts can trigger a different perspective, which in turn can result in understanding and peace.
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Let’s have a quick look at some of the encouragement God left for us in our hour of need.
1 Peter 4:12,13 (NIV):
12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.
13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
Matthew 25:14-30:
[This is the parable of the master going away and giving talents to his servants, and rewarding them if they used those talents wisely. Note that the two faithful servants received identical rewards, despite having different levels of responsibility.]
Where does that lead?
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It would seem that someone whose whole life appears to be behind the eight ball, has fewer talents to play with than someone for whom life is a relative breeze. (But with more talents comes more responsibility. Look at Luke 12:48b and 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 later)
Maybe all the behind-the-eight-ball person has to do, is to recognise and acknowledge that God has allowed their situation to come about for a definite purpose, and that that purpose is for their ultimate benefit. That should help them to grit their teeth and resolve to trust God completely, no matter what life has thrown at them and what life is throwing at them, and no matter how bad that makes them feel. The trust may be all that God wants from them.
Easily said, I know. Difficult to do, at times. But no less achievable, anyway. Joy and understanding follow.
1 Corinthians 2:8 (KJV):
‘But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.’
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