Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Romans 5:3
Some days, I just want to feel sorry for myself. You know, get all caught up in everything that isn't really going my way, host a pity party and make myself the guest of honor, whine, cry, and wonder why trials have to come my way. Humanly speaking, I don't like trials, and I really don't like suffering. Alone, I react negatively to difficulties.
But then I read something, or hear something, or God might just plop His word in front of me - like the one's above - to remind me - that life is not just about me.
One of the ways that I can test my own faith, is to pay attention to how I respond to things that I find challenging; trials, or suffering. If I remain in the state of mind of feeling sorry for myself, I know that I am not acting out in hope, not building character, and not persevering. I might need to snap myself out of an attitude and figure out how to rejoice! And yes, especially in the difficulty I am facing.
Sometimes - easier said than done. Oddly, sometimes it is easier when I know that I have zero control over the situation; like when my husband went through a corporate lay-off. There was nothing I could do and rejoicing was (strangely) part of that journey. However, when facing drama at work, or an unbelieving loved one, rejoicing is way more difficult for me.
I know from God's word that one who believes in the power and transforming work of God, is one who can look into the face of suffering and say, "Thank you, God! I rejoice even in this difficulty." I know that He will work all things for good according to His purpose....all things. (Romans 8:28) God uses all things, whether I call them trials or not, in order to mold me into the image of Christ. In order for us to have the qualities of Christ, we need to pass through difficulties. They teach us valuable lessons in the Christian school of experience. I don't want to miss out on the blessings that these taught lessons will bring.
So, okay! I am ending my pity party and am going to host a rejoicing party! Even my most difficult tribulations CAN be turned into something good! My God is bigger than that! And I have seen Him do it before!
But then I read something, or hear something, or God might just plop His word in front of me - like the one's above - to remind me - that life is not just about me.
One of the ways that I can test my own faith, is to pay attention to how I respond to things that I find challenging; trials, or suffering. If I remain in the state of mind of feeling sorry for myself, I know that I am not acting out in hope, not building character, and not persevering. I might need to snap myself out of an attitude and figure out how to rejoice! And yes, especially in the difficulty I am facing.
Sometimes - easier said than done. Oddly, sometimes it is easier when I know that I have zero control over the situation; like when my husband went through a corporate lay-off. There was nothing I could do and rejoicing was (strangely) part of that journey. However, when facing drama at work, or an unbelieving loved one, rejoicing is way more difficult for me.
I know from God's word that one who believes in the power and transforming work of God, is one who can look into the face of suffering and say, "Thank you, God! I rejoice even in this difficulty." I know that He will work all things for good according to His purpose....all things. (Romans 8:28) God uses all things, whether I call them trials or not, in order to mold me into the image of Christ. In order for us to have the qualities of Christ, we need to pass through difficulties. They teach us valuable lessons in the Christian school of experience. I don't want to miss out on the blessings that these taught lessons will bring.
So, okay! I am ending my pity party and am going to host a rejoicing party! Even my most difficult tribulations CAN be turned into something good! My God is bigger than that! And I have seen Him do it before!
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
Blessings!John 16:33
3 comments:
Rejoicing with you!!!!
Oh yeah, somedays I don't only WANT to feel sorry for myself... I DO feel sorry for myself. :)
Nice timing...where you reading my mind? LOL
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