Following Our Good Shepherd

7/10/24 – 07/16/24

A Greater Good

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/13/24

Many Christians have the erroneous belief that if they just try hard enough to be good then they can escape the trials of life. But the Bible teaches us something completely different: “The righteous person may have many troubles, . . .” (Psalm 34:19). However, we can find joy in the conclusion of this verse: “. . . but the Lord delivers him from them all; . . .” No matter what we face in life, God will be there with us. Only God can turn our worst tragedies into victories.

Read Psalm 3. During the time David wrote this, he was in hiding from his own son Absalom, who was plotting to dethrone him (see 2 Samuel 15). David had experienced a bitter betrayal not only by his own son but also by some of his closest friends. His life was on the line. His heart was broken. David cried out, “Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!” (Psalm 3:1).

Have you ever been betrayed by people you loved and trusted? Sometimes the emotional and spiritual wounds made by another person can hurt far worse than any sword. One of Satan’s favorite tricks is to cause dissension in our families, in our relationships, and in our churches. When we maliciously speak against another person or stir up rebellion, we become an Absalom in the household of David.

But sometimes these personal attacks on us can be used for a greater good. If you are experiencing a trial right now, ask God to show you how He wants you to use it. Are you being disciplined for a sin in your life? Confess and repent of that sin today. Is your trial an opportunity to share your personal testimony? What may seem like a dark valley may be the open door to share about Christ’s grace and provision in your life.

Prayer: God, show me how You want to use this trial I am going through today. Forgive me for my sins. Help me to be sensitive to Your Spirit for opportunities to bring You glory in the midst of this difficult time. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law; you grant them relief from days of trouble, . . .” (Psalm 94:12-13).