IF THIS IS HOW GOD TREATS HIS FRIENDS: PART 1


Connect with Mary:
“IF THIS IS HOW GOD TREATS HIS FRIENDS, NO WONDER HE HAS SO FEW OF THEM!"
TERESA OF AVILA (1515 – 1582 A.D.)
 
I understand where Teresa was coming from.
 
Let me open my diary and reveal some words I wrote during one of the most difficult times of my chronic illness, when I could barely walk, move, or talk.
 
“Are you even there, Lord? Can you really be there, and love me, letting your child endure this? I thought you were going to heal me. I keep getting worse, no matter what I do. Is this really what you want for someone you love? I’m a total shut-in now. I can’t go anywhere, do anything. You seem so far. You, my dearest companion, in the past, always answering prayers so faithfully, even trivial ones. And now you’re ignoring the biggest prayer of my life.” (Break Free, p. 20)
 
Each person is affected differently by suffering. Some do not experience much spiritual questioning, while others find this to be a major part of their journey. Don’t be afraid to talk honestly with God about your doubts and frustrations.
 
God included the words of Psalm 44 and Lamentations 3 in the Bible as models for us in dialoguing with him about our uncertainties. In Genesis 32:22 – 23, God even blesses Jacob for wrestling with him. Read one of these references, and let me know what you think of them.
 
Question: What has helped you in times of spiritual doubt or discouragement?