Turning to God in Times of Struggle

“The Purpose of Hardship: Turning to God in Times of Struggle”

“That which God designs, in smiting us, is to turn us to himself and to set us a seeking him; and, if this point be not gained by lesser judgments, greater may be expected…” These powerful words, spoken by the renowned author and speaker Jonathan Cahn, offer a poignant reminder of the purpose behind the challenges and hardships we face in life.

At first glance, it may seem counterintuitive to suggest that God’s purpose in causing us suffering or hardship is to turn us to himself. We often think of God as a loving and merciful being who wants the best for us, and it can be difficult to understand why he would allow us to go through difficult experiences. And yet, Cahn’s words remind us that God’s ways are not our ways, and that his ultimate goal for us may not always align with our own desires or expectations.

So what does Cahn mean when he says that God’s purpose in smiting us is to turn us to himself and set us a seeking him? Essentially, he is suggesting that when we experience difficult circumstances or challenges in life, it can serve as an opportunity for us to draw closer to God and seek his guidance and strength. These challenges can act as a wake-up call, reminding us that we are not in control and that we need to rely on God for help and direction.

This idea is rooted in the biblical concept of God’s sovereignty, or his complete control over all things. While we may not always understand why certain things happen in our lives, we can trust that God is ultimately in control and that everything serves his greater purpose. As the Psalmist writes in Psalm 145:3, “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable.”

But why would God allow us to experience suffering or hardship in the first place? Cahn suggests that it is often because we have strayed from God’s will and need to be brought back to him. As the saying goes, sometimes we don’t realize the value of something until it’s gone. In the same way, we may not fully appreciate the blessings of God’s presence in our lives until we are faced with a crisis that reminds us of our need for him.

However, Cahn also notes that if this point – turning to God and seeking him – is not gained through lesser judgments, greater ones may be expected. This does not mean that God is an arbitrary or vengeful being who delights in causing us pain. Rather, it suggests that if we fail to learn the lessons that God is trying to teach us through smaller challenges, he may allow more significant ones to come our way in the hope that they will ultimately lead us to him.

But there is hope in this message, as well. No matter how difficult our circumstances may be, God is always ready to welcome us back and offer us his grace and mercy. As the apostle Paul writes in Romans 8:28, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

In conclusion, Cahn’s words remind us that God’s purpose in causing us suffering or hardship is to turn us to himself and set us a seeking him. While this may not always be easy or comfortable, it is ultimately for our own good and for the glory of God. As we seek him and rely on his strength and guidance, we can trust that he will work all things together for our good and bring us through even the most difficult of circumstances.