God Is Working
By Rev. Everett R. Kimble, Sr.
“Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.” (1 Peter 4:12-13)
Life is full of trials and tribulations. This is not a profound revelation, but every now and then I have to remind myself that hard times are just a natural part of living. I know and understand that this is true, but still every struggle is hard. Every heartache hurts. Every set back knocks me off balance for a moment, and disappointment often takes the wind right out my sail. The saving grace I have now that I did not have when I was a younger believer is simple; I have a deeper, more relevant relationship with God and every day I grow closer to Him. Leaning on and trusting in the promises of God has changed the whole dynamic of my struggle. I can bounce back faster, but not only faster, stronger.
As believers our prayers are filled with thanks to God for protecting us from the storms of life and much of the time in prayer is spent asking for the hard times to pass on by. We ask for the coming days to be full of joy and laughter, and these are all good prayers, but what happens when it looks as if those prayers have gone unanswered. This may sound strange, but those seemingly unanswered prayers are God’s good time. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”
God’s greatest strength is displayed through our greatest weakness, so here is your encouragement for today. In your deepest, darkest moments try and find the space to smile because God is getting ready to use your pain to show the world just how awesome He is and there is nothing strange about it. Right in the middle of your pain remember today is a good day and it is your day. So, brace yourself, God is about to do something amazing and wonderful!
“Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.”
Hold on your change is coming! Have a blessed and beautiful Friday.
