Why storms are necessary for survival

An article recently posted at Christianity Today (Why Storms Are Necessary for Survival) may be called an ‘Easter devotional’, but its truths ring out most days, and all year-long. Author Robert L. Fuller ponders well the mysteries of trials and tribulation in our lives, making the great point that they are necessary.

“Could it be that our difficulties, more than our delights, are what drive us closer to God?” he asks. “They remind us of our desperation and lead us back to the sole source of abundant life.”

Romans 5:3–5 of course backs it all up:

“We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

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A WONDROUS LOOK AT A LESSER-KNOWN PAINTING BY VINCENT VAN GOGH:

Hope in the sinful world of Van Gogh’s ‘The Night Cafe’

It's from a Catholic site, but hey, we're ecumenical (just click on the golden words above to read the original piece).

As Reverend Connie noted when viewing the painting: “The door in the painting with light beyond is symbolic of the empty tomb … sin and suffering in the night café as he says. But it is the door that beckons the suffering patrons to get up from their tables and walk toward the light … some will (and live); others won’t (and die).”

For a deeper dive into Van Gogh and faith, see also: Vincent van Gogh’s unappreciated journey with Christ  [from God Reports].

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“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” [1 Corinthians 1:18]