Should Christians act a certain way in general? Certainly there are characteristics that we share, but what about in difficult times? I would like start by examining two verses.

First, 1 Thessalonians 5:18: "in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Secondly 1 Peter 4:11 "If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever, Amen."

I would like to point out that the verses say "in all things" not "for all things". I don't think this necessarily means that if something bad happens that we don't rejoice and thank God for something if it is bad. But rather we should still give Him glory in difficult times.

James 1:13 says "Let no one say when he is tempted, 'I am tempted by God'; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.". However, we know God allows temptation from the book of Job.

The response of a Christian should result in trusting the Lord. Proverbs 16:20 "He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the LORD, happy is he.". Though we may not understand God's plan, we know that He is our Shepard and will keep us safe: Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.".

Posted by Craig