I have a place in my teeth where food snags every time I chew. So, I keep one of those flossing devices with me at all times. And then, having started flossing anyway, I often floss all my teeth. I've thought about getting that nuisance fixed; but I haven't because it encourages me do something I should be doing anyway: floss my teeth.
I have other "nuisances"in my life, most of which can't be "fixed" by me. They are out of my control. They, too, make me do something I should do anyway: trust God.
The Apostle Paul, too, had his "thorn in the flesh", not to mention all the abuse he suffered for preaching Jesus. Nevertheless, Paul understood that life's trials produce good in us; not just in this life, but forever: Endurance "has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." I (Tim. 4:8)
Paul endured suffering because he believed God's promise of blessing for faithfulness in this life. Paul wanted a crown (and not the kind that goes on teeth); "a crown that will last forever", given him by Jesus Himself in heaven. Paul endured all "for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings." He ran to "get the prize". (I Cor. 9:22-27) The prize is not heaven. That is a gift of God's grace. The prize is what all who trust God in the midst of trials will receive someday.
Would I be rid of my life's struggles if I could. I'm not so sure I would; because they spur me to trust in God and, to the extent I do so, I will "receive what is due [me] for the things done while in the body." (II Cor. 5:10.)
And so will you.
Do you know someone who is suffering physical or emotional pain who would be encouraged by this blog? Then please send them the link by clicking the envelope below, where you can also share it on Twitter and Facebook.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Your comment is private until I review it and post it. Just tell me if you want to keep it private.