Today’s scripture: Philippians 1:29-30
Okay. Today’s verses aren’t the most uplifting we’ve read lately. While we are
thrilled we’ve been granted the right to believe in Christ, we still would prefer not
to have to suffer. However, as I’ve written many times, suffering, trials, and
tribulations will come. Not only do we live in a fallen world that’s becoming
more and more corrupt each day it seems, but we also are smack-dab in the
middle of a spiritual battle (Eph. 6:12).
I think the key here is “for His sake.” When we suffer for Christ and for our
faith, and we are able to respond with joy, God is glorified. When we can use
our suffering to encourage and comfort others, they may see Christ in us (2 Cor. 1:3-7). And God often uses our suffering to draw us closer to Him as we
realize our own weakness (2 Cor. 12:9-10).
The world uses suffering as a case against a loving God, but we who know Him
understand that He loves us through suffering. He guides us through the trials.
He carries us through the tribulations. And He holds us tightly through the
pain.
As much as I’d love to be free from my daily pain, I quite honestly wouldn’t
trade the lessons I’ve learned, the encouragement I’ve been blessed to offer,
and the intimacy I have with my Lord for anything. Even a healthy strong body.
What trial are you facing today? What pain are you experiencing? Draw close to
your Abba Father, and crawl into His lap. Let Him help you through the
suffering, even if He chooses not to remove it.
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