These two posts were back to back on my newsfeeds just now:
(1)
GOD IS DOING AWESOME THINGS IN MY LIFE!
I start my job in the morning... I'm extremely happy and so thankful for all that God is doing.
(2)
Satan is attacking my family. I'm trying hard to see through the depression and have faith, but we are tired, we are weak from years of endless attacks. Satan is using people to wear us down, and it's beginning to be hard to keep going.
____________________________
This, of course, got me to thinking of God and how He works in all of our lives. These two people are obviously at two completely different places in their lives spiritually, emotionally, probably financially and perhaps physically...BUT God is God in both of their lives. The same God who is blessing the first is watching over the second who is under attack.
I have been at the exact same place in my Christian walk where both of these two are. I have been on the mountain top. I have been in the deep dark valley. It was much harder in the valley to praise God and remember that He was in control. My faith too was tested. I was weak and tired, BUT I am so thankful I did not throw in the towel.
When God has tried us we do come forth as gold. The mountain top is so much more beautiful and so much more appreciated when you have been on a long journey to get there.
No matter which of these two stories is closest to where you are in your life, remember God is there. He will never leave you or forsake you. He is walking beside you. He is surrounding you with His love and protection always.
Job 23
10 "But He knows the way I take;
When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
11 "My foot has held fast to His path;
I have kept His way and not turned aside.
12 "I have not departed from the command of His lips;
I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.