“The righteous cry, and the LORD hears And delivers them out of all their troubles.” Psalm 34:17
When the wealthy businessman choked on a fish bone at a restaurant, he was fortunate that a doctor was seated at a nearby table. Springing up, the doctor skillfully removed the bone and saved the man’s life.
As soon as the fellow had calmed himself and could talk again, he thanked the surgeon enthusiastically and offered to pay him for his services. “Just name the fee,” he croaked gratefully. “Okay,” replied the doctor. “How about half of what you’d have offered when the bone was still stuck in your throat?”
Are we often guilty of seeing God’s value more in times of need and pain? When things are going well, too often we shove God aside, but when trouble comes, we are quick to call upon Him for help.
But how often are we looking for help in the wrong places? Recently released telephone directory figures reveal that out of 20 million recent callers, those wanting information about churches and religious organizations fell by 24 percent, while those seeking mediums, palm readers and other “spiritual services” jumped 161 percent.
In the midst of the current economic crisis and long term uncertainty, people are seeking reassurance that things will be all right, but they are looking in the wrong places for answers.
Scripture is clear that God is near. He invites us to call upon Him, but not just in times of trouble. He created us for fellowship in the good times as well as encouragement in the difficult times of life. His value is the same, in both good times and bad.
James (4:8) tells us to come near to God and He will come near to us. How close is your walk with the Master? I know that mine could use some “drawing near” and probably yours could too.
Too often I try to be the captain of my ship and the master of my fate, but it is not God’s will for me to do this “life thing” alone. He created me in the beginning and waits to greet me at the end and in between He desires a partnership with me in all I do and in the good times as well as the bad.
(a thought on life from John Grant )
By John Grant
Used by Permission
John Grant is a former Florida State Senator and is a practicing attorney
Further Reading
• Precious – A Poem by Margaret Mullings
• In God Alone – A Devotional by Suzanne Benner
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