From the Storm or Through the Storm

“Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Although I have cast them far off among the heathen, and although I have scattered them among the countries, yet will I be to them as a little sanctuary in the countries where they shall come.” -- Ezekiel 11:16 

God sometimes takes away the storm, and other times, He guides us through it. The entire book of Ezekiel is about the prophet warning the people of their judgment due to their disobedience. The enemy was set to attack, and His people would be scattered. God had the power to stop the enemies or prevent their captivity, but He chose not to. Instead, He promised to be with them and support them in their exile. Although He could have changed the situation, He decided to comfort them in their hardship.

Similarly, when Paul prayed for God to remove the thorn in his flesh, God decided not to. God was able to remove it, but He chose to comfort and assist Paul instead.

This often happens in our lives. We can pray for healing, help, or deliverance from challenges, but we must also accept God’s decisions. God may not remove the difficulty, but He might help us endure it. In either case, God knows what is best for us and we should trust Him.