Honestly, life sometime sucks (excuse my French)! “Why are there so many tears and fears? Why is there so much pain and sorrow? Why? Why? Why?”
“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever.” 2 Corinthians 4:17
The theme from yesterday’s post is kind of being repeated here. Above everything that life dishes out to us, we have to remember that there is purpose in our suffering. Don’t let troubles diminish your faith. The Bible says,
“Blessed is the man (or woman) who perseveres through trials; when they have stood the test, they will receive the crown of life God promises those who love Him.” James 1: 12
Love that scripture…it’s taped to the shower door in my bathroom!
Can I remind you of the benefits of troubles and trials (Yes, there is an upside to adversity)? Here they are…
~ Jesus learned obedience in His suffering. This means He was willing to look beyond His pain, and submit to the Father’s plan. So, our trials remind us of Jesus’ pain and suffering.
~ They keep us from pride. I used to be the queen of pride. Having this disease has knocked me down a peg or two, and now my priorities are in the correct order. It’s no longer about me, myself, and I…I know who I am and who God is.
~ They give us an eternal perspective. We are able to look beyond this brief life.
~ They give us opportunities to prove our faith to others.
~ They give God opportunities to demonstrate His power and love.
Amen?