Hidden Mountains

Bible Reading: Job 23:8-12

“I can’t believe it!” Kaitlyn cried as she put down her phone.

“What’s wrong?” asked Mom.

“Mrs. Anderson said she doesn’t need me to walk their dogs anymore! Her granddaughter moved down the street from them, and they’re giving her the job. How am I ever going to save up for a new bike now?” Kaitlyn flopped down at the kitchen table. “If God really cares, why did He let this happen?”

“I know you’re disappointed, Kate,” said Mom, “but God does care about you, and He knows what He’s doing. The Bible tells us He works everything out for our good.”

Kaitlyn frowned. “Well, I sure can’t see any good reason for this to happen, so how can I believe there is one?”

An hour later, Kaitlyn and her parents got in the car and headed for her grandparents’ home. “I always love the scenery along here!” Kaitlyn said, gazing out the van window. “The clouds make it even more interesting today.”

“They hide the view in front though,” Dad commented. “Where is our favorite mountain range? It’s usually up ahead, but I can’t even see it.”

“You’re right!” said Kaitlyn. “It looks like there are only hills—not a mountain in sight!”

“How sad,” Mom said. “I love those mountains. We’ll miss them now that they’re gone.”

“Gone?” Kaitlyn’s eyebrows shot up, and she leaned forward to look at Mom.

“Yeah,” Mom said. “If I can’t see the mountains, how can I believe there really are any out there?”

“Mom! You know they’re just hidden by the clouds,” Kaitlyn said.

Mom chuckled. “I know. But not being able to see the mountains today reminded me of something else we’re not always able to see—God’s reasons for allowing difficult things in our lives. Even though His purpose in allowing you to lose your job is hidden from you, He is still good. His love for you is unmoving, just like those mountains—love He made visible by sending His Son, Jesus, to die for you on the cross.”

Kaitlyn looked out the window. “I still don’t know why God didn’t let me keep my dog-walking job,” she said after a moment, “but I know I need to trust Him, even if I don’t see His reasons.” • Jessica Dorfsmith

How About You?

Have you had something difficult happen and you couldn’t figure out why? Next time you see clouds covering mountains—or perhaps blocking the sun, stars, or moon—remember that those things are still there behind the clouds. And when you can’t see why God has allowed something to happen, remember that He truly does have good reasons. You don’t need to figure it out. Just remember how much He loves you and trust Him.

Today’s Key Verse:
Romans 8:28 We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God. (CSB)

Today’s Key Thought:

Trust God’s reasons