God Brings Us To The Struggle Joshua 3

In Sunday's message we considered the reality that God often brings us to a struggle to find ways to bring Him glory so that all people of the earth will know Him. One specific example occurs in John 9. Maybe the story is familiar to you. Please take a moment and read the account of the man born blind, healed miraculously by Jesus. Many pointed fingers at the man's family. Someone must be to blame for the man's blindness. Jesus had a peculiar response in John 9:3. What thoughts come to mind about Jesus' response? What struggle are you experiencing today or have you experienced lately that you would be willing to examine for a similar purpose?

When we experience struggles, we are tempted to fall into safe, old patterns to make sense of our situation. Take some time today and consider your situation. It's okay to be honest. It's just you and the Lord. Are you struggling with grief, doubt, confusion, addiction, apathy, illness, or any other host of circumstances that could cause you to wander in the wilderness? Would you adjust your inquiry around these questions?

Instead of asking, "Why is this happening to me?" ask, "What are you working to accomplish, Lord?"
Instead of asking, "How can I get out of this mess?" ask, "How will I draw closer to Christ?"

Consider that your relationships, your finances, your habits, your addictions, your distance from God all may be crisis moments God has brought you to in order to draw you closer to Him and His inheritance for you. Maybe God has brought you to your moment like Israel crossing the Jordan River because He is ready to make a big move on your behalf for His glory. 

Take some time now and mediate on John 9:3. How will you embrace the struggle God has brought to you?