where there's his will, there's a way
"Set forth and walk about in the land, through its length and breadth, for to you I will give it." —Genesis 13:17
When we live according to God's will, we can't lose. As the Lord made Abram "very rich in livestock, silver, and gold" (Gn 13:2), He prospers us in every way (see 3 Jn 2). As with Abram, even the events in our lives which don't seem ideal turn out for God's glory and our welfare. The Lord promised that whatever we do will prosper if we stay in His word, delight in His law, and do His will (see Ps 1:2-3).
Sometimes we may question how blessed life is in God's will. We see God's faithful people beset with tragedies and sufferings. They don't look blessed and prosperous. However, "study the generations long past and understand; has anyone hoped in the Lord and been disappointed? Has anyone persevered in His fear and been forsaken? Has anyone called upon Him and been rebuffed?" (Sir 2:10) "Neither in my youth, nor now that I am old, have I seen a just man forsaken nor his descendants begging bread" (Ps 37:25). "For if before men, indeed, they be punished, yet is their hope full of immortality; chastised a little, they shall be greatly blessed" (Wis 3:4-5). "The Lord, indeed, knows how to rescue devout men from trial" (2 Pt 2:9). "You may for a time have to suffer the distress of many trials; but this is so that your faith, which is more precious than the passing splendor of fire-tried gold, may by its genuineness lead to praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ appears" (1 Pt 1:6-7).
Those living in God's will are blessed now even in the midst of suffering and will be blessed forever in heaven. His will be done (see Mt 6:10).
Prayer: Father, may I become Jesus' brother, sister, and mother by doing Your will (Mt 12:50).
Promise: "How narrow is the gate that leads to life, how rough the road, and how few there are who find it!" —Mt 7:14
Praise: St. Aloysius renounced all his wealthy heritage in order to enjoy the richest heritage of all: a child of the Living God.
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 1, 2011
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