This Thing is From Me

'This Thing is from Me', is a portion of a Scripture given to the Israelites in 1 Kings 12:24. God knew His people would face division into two nations. The punishment was designed by God because of their idolatry and sin. It was how God would secure a faithful remnant of His followers Eventually God's purpose would be fulfilled with a Redeemer who would be born of His people.
Difficulties, problems and troubles, why do we face these things? Shouldn't Christians be exempt from trials? Do trials come from God? When we read God's Word, we realize that Christians have always gone through suffering and trials. Moses, David, Joseph, Job, Paul, the disciples and many more all went through their own suffering times. There are many reasons for our own trials. Everything that affects us must pass through God. He controls all things. He gives things, controls them or gives permission for them. Some people through disobedience or sin, bring the problem on themselves. Some trials are to mature and develop a Christian for future usefulness. God will allow evil attacks only if a greater good will come out of them. There is always a reason for a troubled time. We might not know or understand this reason.
This writing might give help and comfort when going through trials. It would be an excellent gift for a friend or loved one facing a problem. Part one, speaks of the power of God, His protection and control. Part two could give insight to the reason for trials. Fighting is the theme of the next section with chapters like Patience, Silence, and Fear. It ends with Courage, Endurance and Prayer. The final Part is concentrated on Trust, Faith, Joy and Peace.
There is help available, and sometimes there is a clarity as to the 'why'. The most important understanding is that Christians never go through trials alone. Whether God causes, creates or allows the problem, He goes through it with you. Always staying right by our side. Our trials are light in comparison with what He suffered.
This book relies on God's Scriptures for the understanding of our suffering. Some scriptures to ponder:
Proverbs 17:3 The refining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the Lord trieth the hearts.
Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
Job 23: 10 But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me. I shall come forth as gold.
John 15:2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
1 Peter 4:12-13 Beloved think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings: that when his glory shall be revealed, yea may be glad also with exceeding joy.