Picture: Counsel #17 — Trust in Life or Death CWe 19.1
Let’s face it, we’re obsessed with extending life and avoiding suffering. In fact, the idea of surrendering our lives to God seems radical. However, to exercise true faith means we must recognize that even during medical uncertainty or physical decline, God’s purpose prevails. He asks us to trust Him not just for healing, but for grace to face whatever comes, even if it means accepting a different outcome than we hope or pray for.[18] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nRCmV1FxLM&ab_channel=HopeLives365 CWe 19.2
Historically, those who have suffered religious persecution and martyrdom underscore the depth of this trust, with many today still living in similarly dangerous environments. To trust God with our lives in the face of potential persecution means believing that even if our time on this earth is cut short, our eternal life is secure in Him. It’s the kind of trust that allows a person to stand firm, even when facing unimaginable pressure, knowing that no earthly power can separate us from God’s love. CWe 19.3
“But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, ‘You are my God.’ My times are in your hand.” Psalms 31:14, 15a NKJV CWe 19.4
“The more you trust your Redeemer, the more you will love Him. He is your Friend in life or death.... Jesus knows every throb of pain, every throe of anguish and distress, and He will give His children grace to endure the afflictions that He permits to come upon them...” Ellen White in Signs of the Times , Feb. 28, 1906, par. 5 CWe 19.5
Reflect: What does "grace to face whatever comes" look like in practical terms for your life? CWe 19.6
