Dear Friends,

READ ECCLESIASTES 5:1 THROUGH 7:29

When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, no one can discover anything about their future (Ecclesiastes 7:14).

The future is beyond human understanding. One day may turn out to be good, filled with friends, family, and fun. The next day may bring suffering, solitude, and sadness. However, today’s believer shouldn’t get bogged down by mournful perspectives on life.

Christians can have hope at all times. Whether they’re passing through good times or bad, the apostle Paul wrote that God is always working for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

When Paul sent that encouragement to believers in Rome, he thoroughly understood how difficult life can be. Having been beaten, stoned, and jailed for his faith, Paul knew all about suffering. Yet he had confidence that God was doing a good work through him. Because Paul endured suffering so he could spread the gospel, generations of people have been turned from darkness to light.

Challenge for Today: Rejoice in God’s power to turn every difficult situation into something good.