PowerPoint - Nov. 9, 2007

November 9, 2007

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

--James 1:12

Like it or not, suffering is a required course in God’s curriculum. He had one Son who was without sin, yet suffered. So why should we live life thinking we should be exempt from suffering? It is impossible to pass through this life as a believer without passing through dark valleys.

Now, those valleys look different for each person and they look different depending on the culture in which we find ourselves. But all Christians will suffer. The question is how do you respond when life gets hard?

Some people…when the heat is on…fold up their tents and go home. They can’t take it. It’s not what they bargained for…and they turn their backs on God.

Other people…and I pray that you fall into this camp…look at their suffering as a time of learning…as a time of testing and proving of their faith. It’s not that these people like to suffer or would choose to suffer…it’s just that their peace and contentment in God is disconnected from their circumstances in life.

Today, I pray…no matter where you find yourself in life…that you will remember that Jesus has His eye on the clock and His hand on the thermostat! He won’t let you suffer beyond what you can bear.

So cheer up, knowing that He’s in control and that He only wants what’s ultimately best for you.

Jesus has his eye on the clock and his hand on the thermostat! he won’t let you suffer beyond what you can bear.