Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Gratitude when you hit the rocks

As I've gotten older and learned life's lessons toward peace, I've also become a bit of a tenderfoot. When it's smooth sailing, the path soft upon my feet with the wear of experience and rough road smashed down over time into a path of soft dirt, I become accustomed to the little dirt clods on occasion. But when the road becomes rocky with sharp edges, I'm startled by the pain and pause. To be honest, at that moment of pain, I have a hard time considering it all joy.
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. James 1:2-3
It is necessary to consult a map - THE map (if you will) - so as not to make things worse or react in emotion born of pain, casting truth aside. God is with you. He is for you. And He will see you through this time for He will never leave you nor forsake you as a child of His and He will work all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. These are truths upon which you can stand fast during times of uncertainty and pain. In holding fast to them we can be assured of growth in our love, faith, strength and very witness. And as you express your gratitude for these very truths, you may find yourself rejoicing, yes rejoicing, even in the midst of the trials.
In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials (1 Peter 1:6)
And the path will seem to smooth before you.

No comments:

Post a Comment

 Hmmm....when your artificial tree sheds more needles than any real tree at the time of removal, there may be a problem.  I'm thinking i...