The day is Yours, the night also is Yours; You have prepared the light and the sun. You have set all the borders of the earth; You have made summer and winter. (Psalm 74:16-17)
Over several verses in this psalm, Asaph acknowledged the seeming mastery of Israel’s enemies over the people of God but then returns to this point — God is Master over all forces in the Universe. Because He is in control of all things, and because He is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33), the interaction of forces in the natural world are intended to promote a harmony of sorts. This is true even though it seems that these forces sometimes contradict and oppose one another — e.g. day as opposed to night; summer as opposed to winter.
On the other hand, when the sun rises men are prompted to rise as well, to start moving and be productive. When the sun sets, those same men are forced to stop and rest thus preparing themselves for the next day’s work. And while they sleep, the beasts of the field are free to forage for food undisturbed which, in some cases, can play a significant role in man’s ability to thrive and prosper. In short, even those situations that seem to be in opposition to another from our vantage point, are actually working to bring about God’s perfect plan for His Creation. When His plan is perfected, you and I benefit.
That thought brings us to this point: most of us would consider peace and suffering to be polar opposites; experiences that work against the other. However, the Bible clearly establishes that suffering — the kind that brings death to our carnal inclinations — renders true peace. When our flesh learns to recognize and honor the boundaries that God has established for how we should live, our soul prospers and our lives are blessed with happiness and peace. Therefore, let us be content to endure those seasons that are uncomfortable with the belief and hope that, in the end, God’s purpose for us will be revealed and that His plan will be perfected.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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