Jerry chose Heb. 12:7,10,11 in 2006 to write about and here it is today, just as important to know now as then. "Endure trials for the sake of discipline as God disciplines us for our own good, in order that we might share in His holiness...Discipline always seems painful rather than pleasant at the time, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
"The writer of Hebrews energizes the reader to remember that discipline is not pleasant for us but it does train us to righteousness. As I look over my life, I can see that discipline in many areas of life experience has helped me to become a better person, a person who loves to be a friend of Jesus and to help others come to Him. Without discipline and testing my life may have gone down a wrong path, a path leading to destruction, pain, and death. Lord Jesus, I praise you for disciplining me to bring me to the place that I can walk with you. Amen."
Perhaps you are wondering.."What does a trial for the sake of disciplining from God look like?" Illness might be one trial, or loss of a job, a child dying or extremely ill, loss of a home, an extreme disappointment of any kind might bring one a sense of life being too painful , and it feels as though there is little hope. It is not that God causes tragedies, but it is that God uses tragedy to teach us better ways to live our lives. We have read of trials in the bible, the most powerful, I think, was the one of Job. And yet, Job did not quit God; therefore, God did not quit Job.
You may also ask, "What does one do in case of a Godly trial in your life?" Give a prayer of thanks for all God has previously done for you, is right to do. Acknowledge your faith in God. Ask for guidance, that you do not become overwhelmed, and do what you rightfully can for yourself and your family. Always pray, and ask others to pray. Accept help when offered, but be sure you need help, and advise others when you do not. Keep trusting, even if things look gloomy. Read about Job. Never stop believing that God has things under control, even when things look the darkest. Don't keep track of the amount of time that has gone by, except to see it is amazing that you have made it without pain this far! Cheer yourself up at a drive-in treat, rather than be sad that you can't afford the steak-house! And keep trusting God, no matter how much time has gone by. Thank Him for all He is teaching you about faith and keeping on, faithfully. And God will bless you. And others will see your faith and be blessed, too. I have seen all of this in the life of those I love.
These things are wonderful to learn, either by having a trial in your own life or by seeing one being worked out in another's life. Hanging on by your toenails is a grand thing to learn. Watch for it!
Jo INMN
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