Why Worry?Uzorak

The Setup

Life will present everyone with trials, and not one of us is immune from experiencing difficult seasons. There were many hardships among significant biblical figures of the past, and afflictions still exist today. Simply because we’re in a new time has not changed God’s way of doing things (see Hebrews 13:8).

God often uses our afflictions to achieve His divine purpose. This is what I call “the setup.” The loyalty Ruth demonstrated to Naomi in Ruth 1:16-17 is a sign of God working through her in preparation for what He had in store:

“But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my god. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried….”

Wait—what?!

People and circumstances can lead us to the right place to receive God’s blessings. But during our suffering, do afflictions hurt? Absolutely! Can they bring us to our knees? Literally! Nevertheless, we are inspired to remember that all things work together for good and not just some things but all (see Romans 8:28).

God sees the end of every affliction at the beginning. Unbeknownst to Naomi, who was understandably in her feelings, she was moving toward her testimony. As storms of life come, we are encouraged to “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

Find a quiet place to revisit your list from Day 1. While He promises to deliver the righteous from their afflictions, highlight the areas you contribute to your suffering. You will be laying down your burdens and giving them to the Lord on day three of this plan—so get ready!