There are no Surprises with God

Psalm 31

" I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast

known my soul in adversities... My times are in thy hand...For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications ... Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD."

(v. 7,15,22,24)

The message we can take away from this chapter is central to all our cares and concerns. Let's face it, we all have unique concerns and often we feel that whatever trial we face is uniquely ours. But what is suggested by the words, "thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities.." is that God is very familiar with 'what make you tic'. He knows your history, what bothers you and your cares of the day.

Now consider the words that David offers to us, "My times are in thy hand...For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications ". The word, "times" suggests the seasons we experience. God knows not only what bothers us but he knows what seasons of trials we encounter. But this is attached to a divine assignment, "are in [God's] hand". Our God only permits what he allows for those whom he loves and is familiar.

If we consider the theme of this passage, they lead us in one direction. There are no surprises with God. He knows us and already knew where we would end up despite our choices in life, both good and bad. Furthermore, he has already prepared the optimal course of action for your restoration. It is as if we attend class each day and the teacher gives us each an

individual assignment for our personal growth and development in life. We may feel afraid and uncertain when we face trials just as David expressed, "For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless..". But be of good courage. God has already prepared for our situation in advance. That is how David can encourage us with his words, "Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.", The word "strengthen" here does not mean just to make strong, but carries the meaning of "animate or make fully alive". Yes, if God shows us such kindness and assures us he already knows what where we are in our life,

then be assured he remains with us in the restoration of living. Be confident. There are no surprises with God.

Have a great day, my friends.