“For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” -Hebrews 12:11
Today Timothy Keller discusses the final two ways God uses our suffering to remove our weaknesses and build us up.
3. Most of all, suffering can strengthen our relationship to God as nothing else can. Pastor Keller surmises that during good times we may find it difficult to know whether we love God or just the things He is giving us or doing for us. Suffering, however, reveals the impurities of our faith and drives us toward God to pray with greater depth than we would otherwise. As John Newton once wrote:
“Above all, draw near to the throne of grace [in prayer]. If we seem to get no good by attempting to draw near him, we may be sure we shall get none by keeping away from him.”
4. Suffering is almost a prerequisite if we are going to be of much use to other people, especially when they go through their own trials. Handled improperly, suffering makes us hard. Handled properly, suffering creates wisdom and compassion in us.
Today’s question: Has your relationship with Jesus been strengthened through your vocation loss? What ministry opportunities have come your way? Please share.
New addition to Crown Jewels: “Do you really want to wear that?”
Tomorrow’s blog: “Be prepared”