SOAP - Judges 11, 12; Psalm 50; 2 Corinthians 1

(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 1:9 Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.

(O)bservation-
Paul writes of a recent time when he was physically in a position in which he thought he would die, but he also acknowledges that it happened for a reason. Believers and non-believers alike on many occasions have asked the question 'why would God allow something like this to happen? and I believe that this, at least in part, is the answer. God loves His children but He also allows us to be put in positions in which we are tested to the max to see if we really will trust and rely on Him. We can say all day long that we will but it is not until extreme hardship comes that the answer to this question can truly be revealed.

(A)pplication-
Personally, this last year-and-a-half has been just about the most trying time of my life. Even as I write this I am in the midst of extreme hardship. But I trust in God and know that He loves me, will protect me, and will provide for me. This hardship will not last forever and I know that it is for a reason and that I will be better when I come out the other side. In all situations and circumstances God works for the good of those who love Him.

(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for Your love, protection, and provision in my life. Thank You for times of pressure, which You use in our lives to help us. They help to perfect us into a more functional part of Your Kingdom. Please God, do Your work in me - in my heart and in my spirit - so that I may be better equipped to do all of the great work that You have laid out for me and so that I can glorify Your Holy Name. Lord God I thank You, love You, and trust in You and give You all of my praise. I pray these things in the name of our blessed Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.