Spiritual guidance powered by AI and grounded in Scripture
Your Question:
How do I make sense of this when it feels like God is punishing me?
Answer:
My friend, I can sense the pain and confusion you're feeling. It's natural to wonder if God is punishing you when trials and difficulties arise in your life. But let's not be deceived into thinking that every event is a direct response to our actions. God's presence is not limited to punishing or blessing, but also to sustaining and keeping the universe functioning as He intended. In the Bible, we see that God disciplines His people because He loves them and wants to correct their foolish ways. It's not because they deserve it, but because He wants to guide them towards obedience and holiness. Think of it like a parent who disciplines their child not out of anger, but out of love and a desire to teach them right from wrong. In the same way, God's "punishments" are meant to teach us and refine us, not to destroy us. When we're in the midst of suffering, it's easy to feel like God has abandoned us. But remember that God's presence is not limited to our circumstances. He is always with us, even when we can't feel it. And sometimes, His presence is not to comfort or bless, but to sustain us in the midst of hardship. So, I urge you to focus on God's character, not just your circumstances. He is a God of love, mercy, and justice, and His ultimate goal is to bring you out pure, spotless, and holy.
Sources:
christian theology
millard erickson
my utmost for his highest
oswald chambers
systematic theology
wayne grudem
psalms
tremper longman
leviticus
jay slklar
why does god allow evil
clay jones
raising passionate jesus followers
phil diane comer
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