As I sit at my desk writing this, I am watching one of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen. Now, sunsets are always beautiful. But today's sunset has an ever more dazzling beauty. The reds and blues and oranges seemed to be competing for a blue ribbon in brilliance. Watching God's masterpiece unfold, I am awestruck by His glory.
However, there is sadness behind this beautiful sunset. Today the prevalent news on the radio and social networks is the thick haze of smoke that covers much of the eastern United States. The smoke comes from multiple wildfires that are burning in Canada. An extended drought has caused extremely dry conditions, resulting in these dangerous and costly fires.
The drought is a cause of concern for water shortages. Many people are anxious because the fires are threatening their properties and the smoke is a health hazard to everyone who has to breathe it. So for this reason a lot of people are experiencing heartache and suffering. But through it all God has given us a beautiful sunset.
You know, God never promised that there would not be times of suffering. In 2 Corinthians we are told we will be troubled on every side, but don't be distressed. We will be perplexed, but we should never despair. We will face persecution, but God will never forsake us. And though we might be cast down we will never be destroyed.
God is a master at bringing beauty from ashes and joy from suffering. In Romans 8:18 we are promised that "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." Yes, droughts and fires may be worrisome and smoke and haze may cause us pain and suffering. But wow, look at that sunset!
Douglas & Deborah Huff
email-pavementendsministry@gmail.com
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