"Life is complex" is the opening sentence of his next book, 'Further along the Road Less Travelled'.
The truth that we would probably all agree with is that life is a struggle for many. Whatever shape or form it comes in, most of us have challenges and obstacles in our path every day. And for many, these struggles are too overwhelming. Today's sad news of the apparent suicide of the film director, Tony Scott, merely highlights the pressures that some face.
But if we are followers of Jesus, what might the Lord be doing, when we find ourselves under pressure?
St. Paul addressed that issue in one of his most famous passages, which we often do not read carefully!
' And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the first-born among many brothers and sisters.' (Romans 8.28-29)
The first sentence (the often quoted Romans 8.28) tells us that God's Big Picture overall plan, even down to the details, is to work together for the good of those who love God. That takes some believing at times, especially when we cannot see beyond the pain of the present moment.
But the purpose behind the 'everything' of verse 28 is contained in the next verse.
God wants all of us to develop the character and qualities seen in the life of Jesus. The only way that that is going to happen is when we learn to cooperate with our heavenly Father in his training regime. Just as the Olympic athletes didn't get to be worthy competitors without some extremely tough training regimes, so we will not become like Jesus by singing a few favourite songs, and pleasing ourselves.
Knowing that the Lord has a Big Picture plan for my life helps me to endure the tough times, and relocates everything in my life in the light of His will and purpose. I find that that makes all the difference.
Best wishes,
Richard
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