Not So Appealing

Nº 288

weekly devotions to refresh your soul by Dr. Dan Bolin - February 6, 2024

We are not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us: we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be. - C. S. Lewis

Every three or four years my dermatologist decides I need to peel the old, damaged skin off my face and start over. I apply medicinal cream morning and evening for about two weeks and watch my old skin inflame, crack, scream, and eventually give way to a fresh, new, healthy layer of skin.

The transformation is an excruciating process, but my doctor says it will keep my Swedish-heritage skin free from the dangerous effects of too many days playing, working, and fishing under the hot sun. My doctor is good and wise, not evil and capricious. He’s a nice man who studied at the top schools. He knows what is best for me even though it is painful – for a while.

Trusting God is easy when we are free from worry, fear, or pain. But when the agonizing ointment that leads to healing is applied, we wonder where God and His loving care have gone.

The writer of Proverbs reminds us, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” (Proverbs 27:6a) God is the Friend who is wise enough to know what to do and loving enough to apply the healing treatments we need – even when it hurts.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc