Rewards and punishments?
About this time, Jesus was informed that Pilate had murdered some people from Galilee as they were offering sacrifices at the Temple. “Do you think those Galileans were worse sinners than all the other people from Galilee”? Jesus asked. “Is that why they suffered? Not at all!” (Luke 13:1-3; NLT).
The Lord gave me what I had, and the Lord has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD (Job 1:21; NLT).
Should we accept only good from the hand of God, and never anything bad? (Job 2:10; NLT).
But those who suffer he delivers in their suffering; he speaks to them in their affliction (Job 36:15; NIV).
Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (James 1:4; NIV).
Be thankful in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18; NLT).
Father,
We don’t deserve
The good things
That happen to us –
For they are not rewards;
Nor do we deserve
The bad ones –
For they are not punishments.
Instead,
You speak to us through both,
Giving us the opportunities we need
To reach maturity.
Lord,
Thank you for everything
That happens to us –
Good and bad.
May we always be prepared
To learn from both.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.