MAY 17 – God’s Purpose in the Pain
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 16:4; Psalm 55; 2 Corinthians 5
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“The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.” — Proverbs 16:4
“Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.” — Psalm 55:22
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17
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Let’s be real—life can feel like a mess sometimes. Maybe you’ve dealt with betrayal from a friend like David describes in Psalm 55, or you’ve wondered why things seem so unfair. You might even question if there’s a purpose behind the pain you’re feeling.
But here’s the truth: Proverbs 16:4 reminds us that God has a purpose for everything—even the hard stuff. When life feels overwhelming, 2 Corinthians 5:17 is a game-changer. In Christ, we’re not stuck in the past or defined by what’s been done to us. We are made new, with a fresh start and a purpose. No matter what you’re going through, you’re never without hope—and never alone.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. God Has a Plan: How does knowing that everything has a purpose help you trust God even when life doesn’t make sense?
2. You Can Trust Him with Your Pain: What burdens are you carrying right now? Have you truly “cast” them onto God, or are you still holding on?
3. You Are Not Who You Were: When you feel stuck in guilt, shame, or regret, how can remembering that you are a “new creation” in Christ help you walk in freedom?
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BOTTOM LINE
Even when life feels confusing or unfair, God is still working out His perfect purpose. You can trust Him with your pain because He’s making something new in you through it all.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, sometimes I don’t understand why things happen the way they do. But I believe You have a purpose, even when I can’t see it. Help me to cast my burdens on You and trust that You will carry me through. Remind me that I am a new creation in Christ, made for Your glory. Give me strength, peace, and hope as I walk through every season. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.