Suffering is not something a Christian expects when they decide to follow Christ. Of course you read and study about it but its not real to you until it actually happens. Fortunately or maybe unfortunately (depending on you look at it) we in America don't suffer the way believers do in other countries. I feel like my husband and I have been going through some trials I wish we didn't have to go through. It's strained different relationships in my life. Typically I fight through it and get to the solution head on. Now I have people around me who don't do that and I have to adjust. I want a resolution so I can have closure but that's not happening any time soon. So, how do I handle this in a way that honors Christ when all I want to do is scream?
In Philippians 4:10-13 Paul writes " I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be a content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me." To have that kind of faith! No matter what situation Paul was in he had learned the secret. So what's the secret? It's simple but difficult to do: trusting in God in every circumstance. To me that means being obedient to the Lord whether I want to or not. I've done this in the past and most of the time I've been blessed. So I have to be content in the situation God's put me in knowing that He's working everything out for His glory. I need to remember this every day; be in His word so I can have reminders of how God is working. Also I need to remember there are others out there who are going through much more difficult circumstances and I need to keep them in prayer just like the Philippians did for Paul.
How do I rejoice in suffering? That's a something I haven't figured out yet but hope to in my journey as I get closer to Christ.
What do you think? How has suffering made you stronger? Or are you still trying to figure it out?
Friday, November 20, 2009
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