Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stall yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. (Habakkuk 17-18) NIV
Sometimes I don't like to talk about the things that happen to our family. Since my daughter's death, almost 6 years ago, we have gone from crisis to crisis. It is as if we live on the brink of disaster on an almost daily basis.
Right now, things are at a low point again. Lower than usual? I'd say so. "Bad" has become our normal.
So ... why do I believe God is good?
Because I know my daughter is no longer fighting her addictions?
Because I have seen my husband grow closer to God and seen him learn to appreciate the here and now as he lives day-to day with cancer? (He is an inspiration to me as he keeps going and cares so much for his family.)
Because technology provides a way for me to at least see my husband's face although he is miles away in a hospital seeking answers?
Because my daughter-in-law is safe after having her tire blow at almost 60 miles an hour while she was next to a semi?
No. Those are not the reasons I believe God is good, although I am grateful for each one. The reasons go much deeper than that.
God does not always bring an immediate good in which to rejoice. I have seen that often.
To be honest, there is no earthy reason for me to believe God is good.
The answer is unknowable to many. The answer is foolish to many. The answer is unbelievable to many.
That answer to the reason that I believe God is good, is because I believe that God is.
Father God, Thank you that amidst all the trials, all the problems, all the things that throw us back into your arms, that You are there. And in that alone, we can rejoice that You are "the great I AM." Amen and amen.