Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.
1 Peter 4:12-13 MSG
Life has its peaks and valleys for us all. What are we seeing when difficulty happens in our lives? Are we rejoicing in the opportunity to share in the sufferings of Christ? Or are we squirming to get out of the uncomfortable, maybe even, painful situation as quickly as possible.
James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.”
God is on the job! We can trust in Him to deliver us through the fire. Just like gold, we are proved pure when put in the flame.
We can be encouraged to stay the course no matter our circumstances. God has seen it all. Jesus has experienced it all. Let’s surrender to the “spiritual refining process,” so that we can press forward in the work God has for us.
Considerations for your planner:
- How do you view pain and difficulty? Do you run from it or avoid it? Write down when it would look like for you to see joy in the midst of the discomfort and pain.
A Prayer for Our Community:
Heavenly Father, Help us to see difficulty through different eyes. When we feel like we are in the fire, help us to place our full attention on You. We want to trust and rest in Your development of us. We do not want to be deficient in any way. Grow in us a joy that we get to be in the thick of it doing Your work. Amen.
Strengthen the Christian Planner Family by sharing your experiences and prayers. We'd love to hear a story or prayer about God's work in your life. Use the form linked below to submit your story.
