Stress Test Devotional April 20
April 20, 2024
DAY 27
PSALM 23
Fortunately in Christ, we see that God not only enters into suffering but he redeems and transforms it. Jesus did not simply extend the promise of a future reward or a coming renewal to suffering people he met. He healed them, demonstrating God’s power over sickness, disease, possession, hunger, mental illness, and death itself. If we need to see God’s attitude toward suffering directly, here it is! Jesus grieved over the pain and losses of others, and he fought against the things that diminish and destroy life.
Moreover, his death and resurrection show that God can use the worst kind of suffering and evil for the greatest of great purposes. God’s followers should never ask for suffering, but when we trust in him in the midst of it, he can use painful things to transform us into creatures fit for heaven. The stories of saints and martyrs suggests that the experience of being sustained in the dark “valley of the shadow” can deepen our faith and character.
Have you ever experienced healing? Have you grown in suffering?
FAMILY TIME— Read Psalm 23 and get everyone to make a comment on it or ask a question about it.
