A Gentle Whisper -- Listening for the Voice of God Johnny Almond  

Learning the Hard Way

Then Job replied to the LORD:
“I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted.” JOB 42:1-2 NIV


The experience classroom is where you learn profound wisdom. The school of hard knocks presents a tough curriculum, but what you learn experientially alters you more than what you learn academically.


The first lesson you need to learn is that My power is unlimited. If you treat Me as Lord of your life, nothing I ask will be too hard for you to do. Humanly speaking, some challenges are outside the realm of possibility—but within My realm of grace everything is possible.


Another reality you need to grasp is I have a plan for your life. I orchestrate a master plan for your good. Death’s terror, life’s problems, demon’s distractions, and the future’s worries cannot kill My love. Pain sculpts you into Christ’s image, if you submit to the Sculptor. Through difficult circumstances, I teach you the principle of trust. In the valley, you learn lessons you would never learn on the mountain.


The truth you most need to know is the reality of My Presence. Hearing about Me secondhand is interesting; seeing Me for yourself is transforming. I am your Travel Companion on the journey of life. My Spirit shines brightly in your darkest night. Follow My lead, and you cannot go wrong. Trust Me, and you will forever be glad you did.


You also need to learn the value of intercessory prayer. Even after Job’s friends misjudged and harshly criticized him, he prayed for them. It was not easy for him to do that. And when people hurl accusations at you or question your motives, you may not feel like praying for them; but your faith demands that you do. Jesus intercedes for you. Follow His example—be thoughtful of others’ needs.


Learn day-by-day the riches of My provision. I blessed Job in the autumn of his life more than in the spring. I will do the same for you. Everything you need—in every season of life—I will lavishly provide. Whatever happens, count on Me—everything will be fine.


Finally, you will learn the reward of My peace. Like the wine at Cana’s feast, I saved the best for last for Job. Double blessings after his ordeal confirmed My love. He persevered, so I caused a joyful outcome. Endure hard times, and I will bless you with joy not too good to last.


Learn My lessons well—then you will graduate from Adversity University with highest honors.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond

Day 192, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Johnny

Johnny R. Almond earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey and a Diploma in Religious Studies from the University of Cambridge. After pastoring churches for a decade, he served the Air Force as a military chaplain in worldwide assignments. After retiring from the military in 2000, he began serving as pastor in Virginia. He currently serves as pastor of Hull's Memorial Baptist Church in Fredericksburg, Virginia. He and his wife, Beverly, have four sons, three grandsons, and three granddaughters.