Brandon: Through tragedy trust in God

These last few weeks, terrible and tragic events have taken place in our world. We all have looked upon France with heartache and compassion as news of the murders in Paris was broadcast for all to hear. Then word of the tragic events in Africa came just about two days later.

What has happened to this world? Are things in our world just out of control?

link Judy Brandon

Columnist

The Bible is timely and timeless and I receive comfort knowing what the people of the Bible endured and how they trusted God, even when events in their lives made their circumstances seem out of control. They all had this one thing in common: They were in need of assurance from God.

All my adult life, the account of the Apostle Paul’s shipwreck and his response in a disastrous situation has brought me assurance and comfort when I most needed it.

Centuries ago the Apostle Paul boarded a ship to Rome to stand trial. As the journey progressed, the ship ran into terrible weather. Paul had warned them earlier that they were in for problems but the captain didn’t listen. After all, Paul was just a prisoner.

The wind became more ferocious and the pilot couldn’t control the ship. Because of the extreme rocking of the boat, all passengers were being tossed violently by the waves in the storm. To lighten the load of the ship, they began to throw cargo overboard.

Without food and water and in the middle of a blinding wind and rain storm, the men had lost all hope of being saved. Then Paul stood up and addressed the situation:

“For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me and said, ‘Don’t be afraid, Paul — for you will surely stand trial before Caesar. What’s more, God has granted your request and will save the lives of all those sailing with you.’ So take courage. For I believe God. It will be just as he said.” (Acts 27: 22-25)

Paul had such a strong faith that he stood up in the middle of what seemed to be an impossible situation and he endured because he trusted the sovereignty of God.

Faithful Joseph praised God even when he was a prisoner in Egypt, and God delivered him and raised him to national importance.

Apprehensive Moses walked up to the mighty Pharaoh and delivered the message to let the children of Israel go free and finally they were freed.

Suffering Job refused to curse God when the calamities were brought upon him and he ended up triumphant.

Brave Daniel stood captive in prison among hungry lions, and God closed the mouths of the lions and his life was saved.

Patient Joseph heard from the angel that his fiancé was already expecting a child, but the child was God’s Son. So Joseph obeyed and took care of Mary.

The nameless woman who was sick for years knew that if she just touched the hem of Jesus’ garment she would be healed. She did and she was.

Elderly Anna lived in the temple for decades waiting a sign about the coming Messiah, and she saw the Messiah the day Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the temple.

I realize that all these examples have nothing to do with the news of the present condition of our world. Yet all these examples send a strong message to believers today:

Faith in difficult times helps us to endure, to cling to God, to obey even when we do not understand; faith in God tells us to not give up hope.

The Bible reads: “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knows those who trust in him.” (Nahum 1:7).

God is supreme and he does not forget when others are wronged. God is sovereign, almighty and omnipotent and his ultimate purpose will prevail.

Judy Brandon is a Clovis resident. Contact her at:

[email protected]