For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV
Troubles are part of life. We are taught this throughout scripture and no one is spared. We all encounter physical, mental and emotional pain while we are in this word. Jesus speaks to it.
“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
Affliction can be like a wound from an arrow, painful going in and painful coming out. We must be willing to be patient through it all and endure all the way through the healing process, always remembering that God will use the pain for our good.
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11 NIV
God allows pain in our lives for his purposes, and for our benefit. As hard as it is, we can only look to Him for comfort and strength while we endure.
Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” Isaiah 30:20-21 NIV
It is okay to queryGod as he allows us to stand trials, but ask about his purpose before asking for a way out. His conclusion will always work for our good.
But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. I Peter 5:10 NKJV
Always remember he is with us in the fire. We are going through the flames with him and are NOT stuck in them!
Keep on loving one another.
Barnabas
Special thanks o Barnabas or this guest submission.
Spot on! He is always with us in the fire! Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! During one of the hardest trials I ever experienced, I did not question “why” I only asked for understanding. “Lord give me eyes to see and understand how this can be used for your Glory” And God, I plead for the comfort of Jehovah.