God humbles his people before he elevates them.
He kills in order to bring them back to life.
He devastates them before honoring them.
He knocks them down in order to pick them up.
God’s methods show the highest artistry and wisdom.
We cannot understand how events like these are a part of God’s plan until we see his plan completed. When these events are happening, they can’t be understood, except through faith alone… But God does everything in secret. We have to be patient while God hides his intentions from us… God sees everything as if it has all taken place already. Everything he wants to happen will certainly happen.
Martin Luther 1483-1546 (excerpt from Faith Alone A Daily Devotional March 24th)