Our circumstances do not determine the nature or character of God. Regardless of our situation, He remains worthy of our worship. God is good and does good. When you and I begin to believe that truth, it changes everything. Even our suffering, though difficult, is seen as an opportunity to trust more, love deeper, and depend greater on Him. This may sound foolish, and indeed it may be to some, but our ability to find joy in suffering comes only when we find greatest satisfaction in Jesus. When He is understood to be of utmost worth, all other things are valued in light of Him.
This truth is illustrated through the lives of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When King Nebuchadnezzar threatens to throw them into a furnace of blazing fire if they refuse to worship idols, the three men respond by saying:
“O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to give you an answer concerning this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.”
“But even if He does not…” consider that for a moment. They realize that their God is able to save, but even if He chooses not to, they’re content. Why? Because they have found God to be of utmost worth. They would rather lose their lives than to deny the treasure they have found in Him. Their circumstance does not change who they know God to be. They refuse to bow down to a golden imitation when they have found true riches in YHWH.
We will only begin to properly evaluate and respond to the circumstances of our life when we find all delight in Jesus. Apart from Him, our suffering truly is without hope, purpose. or joy.
