There has been a topic come up several times in the past week or so. And that is about suffering. But the reminder that suffering is not just suffering. There is purpose in our suffering, it is not meaningless. Suffering is something that is going to produce growth in us if we allow it, and we are commanded to rejoice in our trials.
I've always known this. That we are supposed to find great joy in our trials and suffering because of the growth in our faith that comes from it, and because of God's glory being revealed. And I had even come to a point of not trying to wish away our suffering during our trial with Serenity, although I don't feel I did a very good job of that. But I began this new journey, with our surprise baby, with fears, doubts, all of the above. I know how dangerous this pregnancy has a potential of being. I know how scary that could be. But I've been being challenged to rejoice in this. I don't know exactly how to do that other than to be happy for this baby, which I am! And to thank God for this new life, which I do! And to find my complete rest and peace in my Lord, which I'm well on my way to doing -- but will have to be diligent to keep myself from looking in other directions for peace and comfort, and not allowing the fears to creep up and take over.
We humans have a natural tendency to complain about anything that disrupts our plan, or becomes inconvenient, or causes us discomfort in any way. But my prayer is that God show me how to NOT do that. I'm a complainer. I probably complain more than the average person. I really need to work on it.
So pray for me as I learn how to "Rejoice always, and Give thanks in everything (for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus)."1 Thessalonians 5:16, 18
James 1:2-4
Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.
