” . . . every child of God has a warehouse of comfort, rescue, strength, wisdom, direction, and protection. But because of the pride and self-sufficiency that sin produces in us, we don’t open the door of that warehouse. . . . So as an act of redeeming love, God leads us into situations that cause us to be confronted with our weakness so that we’ll open the door to the lavish resources of help that are in his warehouse of grace.”- Paul David Tripp
“Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.”- Colossians 3:16 (NLT)
Paul David Tripp continues Chapter 13 of Suffering as he notes that there’s comfort in the people of God. However, that comfort won’t be perfect. For there’s nothing perfect this side of eternity. Yet, Pastor Tripp states, the messy resources of help from God’s people provide glorious comfort and provision to every one of God’s suffering children.
Therefore, Pastor Tripp lists seven steps to help you admit your need and open the door to God’s warehouse of protection. The author talks about the first step today.
1. Don’t suffer in isolation. You don’t acquire a noble stature when you opt to bear down and suffer alone. In fact, the author asserts, it’s a recipe for disaster. Hence, to live well amidst the unplanned, the unwanted, and the unexpected, you must humbly depend on God’s people. Most noteworthy, you need to engage in what the author refers to as “worshipfully submissive community with God.”
It’s important to fight isolation temptation. You need the presence and voices of others in your life. Because they can say and do things for you that you could never do for yourself.
Today’s question: What Bible verses point you to the lavish resources of help in God’s warehouse of grace? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Honest communication re: your spiritual battle”
