God rescues the afflicted by their affliction; He instructs them by their torment. -Job 36:15 (HCSB)
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. -John 16:33 (NIV)
“I didn’t sign up for this.”
Ever felt that way?
The truth is, as Christ has told us, that we will have difficulty and troubles in this world. Trials and tribulations are part and parcel of living in a fallen world, and saints are not immune to them.
In fact, I would say that when we face trouble, God is wanting us to be changed through glorifying Him in how we handle the trouble, rather than trying to avoid it. God entrusts His saints to overcome–with His help–and make great strides in His name. And while we’re learning and being refined, others may see us and be drawn to Christ.
The ever-excellent John Piper speaks more about this:
The pearl of greatest price is the glory of Christ.
Thus, Paul stresses that in our sufferings the glory of Christ’s all-sufficient grace is magnified. If we rely on him in our calamity and he sustains our “rejoicing in hope,” then he is shown to be the all-satisfying God of grace and strength that he is.
Read the whole devotional: “The Seminary of Suffering”
I saw this on an inspirational graphic the other day: Instead of asking God to change our situation, let God use the situation to change us.
So, to the fallen world, and all the challenges it presents us as trusted emissaries of God, I say: BRING IT! I have the God of angel armies on my side!
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