GOD'S WORD TODAY

Sirach 39:33-35

All the works of the Lord are good 

and he will satisfy every need in due time.

You must not say: This is less good than that, 

for in its time everything will serve a purpose.

So now, with all your heart and in full voice, 

sing and bless the Name of the Lord.

--- Mine, all that the Lord your God has created is good. All that occurs in every human life is permitted by God for a purpose. Through suffering alone, accepted as coming from the hand of God, can you be purified, can you learn to overcome temptation, subdue the desires of the flesh, and to heed the voice of the Helper, the Holy Spirit. He is granted to you precisely for this purpose. No one can be saved by their own strength; all must rely on the power of God, the wisdom of God, and above all the love of God who sustains all that lives moves and breathes. It is easy to complain, moan, and groan about the evil in the world and its consequences which is sin and suffering. However, if you will learn to praise Me in all circumstances and give glory to the Father; accepting that all suffering can be redemptive when united to the Cross, seasons of grace are granted to you and to the people you love and pray for.