The Good That Pain Can Do
Here I came across this meaningful passage about TRIALS when I was doing my quiet time (Bible reading)… We all face trials & tribulations as we walk along life’s paths… But do we handle trials the right way? Many of us tend to grumble and blame God for any misfortune, even though we should be thankful in all situations… Of course, it’s always the case of easier said than done for most of us, including me, at times when life seems hopeless… However, do read on for some serious enlightenment… It may give you a brand new outlook on sufferings and the pain we have to be put through by God who loves us unconditionally…
1 Peter 4:1-3 (from New International Version Bible)
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do-living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry.
Affliction, when we accept it with humility, can be instructive, a discipline that leads us to a deeper, fuller life. "Before I was afflicted, I went astray," David said, "but now I keep Your Word" (Psalm 119:67). Peter would agree: Affliction leads us not to live for ourselves "but for the will of God" (1 Peter 4:2). Far from being an obstacle to our spiritual growth, pain can be the instrument of it-if we’re trained by it. It can push us closer to God and deeper into His Word. It is a means by which He graciously shapes us to be like His Son, gradually giving us the compassion, contentment, tranquility, and courage we long and pray for. Without pain, we wouldn’t be all that God wants us to be. His strength shines brightest through human weakness. Has God set you apart today to receive instructions through suffering and pain? Endure this training patiently. He can turn the trial into a blessing. He can use it to draw you close to His heart and into His Word, teach you the lessons He intends for you to learn, and use it to bestow His grace on you. -By David Roper
By faith a Christian can have poise, And rise above all that annoys–Sustained and strengthened by God’s power, To live in victory hour by hour. -Hess
"Whatever God teaches us through pain is gain."
Taken from Our Daily Bread; March 9, 2006.
