How Big Is Your God?

We all struggle with difficult things in our lives at one point or another. Lately, I have found myself a bit shy with God, a little afraid. I truly hate admitting that, but there it is. And this is an odd place for me. It's only part of me that seems to be 'waiting for the other shoe to drop' and the rest of me knows God is good and regardless of where He takes me I'll be ok.

It's also an interesting place to be because traditionally in my life I've not been afraid of trials (for that is what part of me fears). I welcomed them because my life's hindsight shows me how close I am to God during them.

Two friends of mine in particular have really been put through the ringer. Well, that makes it sound past tense and unfortunately, it's not. Without going into extreme detail... we are talking about financial problems out of their control (for the friends of Job in us that means... not their fault) that have brought them to the brink of homelessness... more than once. Having to deny their children things that they really "should have" been able to provide. Devastating illness that will plague a family for months and possibly years to come. Not having money for gas, not having money for food, not having money for Christmas. It's heartbreaking.

I find myself constantly trying to resolve these problems. I think we all do when we hear of people who are struggling in any significant way. Oh... have they tried this? How about that? Truth is... there is little WE can do. These are truly God sized problems. I'm now joking with them saying... "I didn't know you were related to Job." One friend shot back, "Hey, we're all related to him!" eeek (If you don't know Job's story from the Bible that comment will have little significance. So happy reading!)

So, I have no great spiritual understanding to add to this.

Ok, maybe one thing.

When people share their difficulties, I think we should first pray. 2nd. we should continue to pray for them when they come to mind. 3rd. we should ask God if there are ways we can be of assistance -- this would be instead of offering all the solutions that come to mind.

Oh, now I'm thinking... (uh oh) do you think we offer solutions because we trust those more than we trust God? Do we really believe God will resolve the issue at hand? Do we believe that prayer works? That God listens and answers? This is a bit of a challenge for me now. oh, it's that same question that has been with me for decades now.... How Big Is Your God?