Many in the United States and other developed nations enjoy creature comforts beyond imagination. On the surface this may seem to shield us from certain trials. For all the benefits, in many ways this is not necessarily good for us. "It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes" (Ps 119:71).
Do you consider your hard life-lessons opportunities for growth? Alternatively, is your attitude causing Jesus to "sigh from the depths of His spirit?" (Mk 8:12) Are there pains that have taken you up to, or possibly beyond, the breaking point? If the answer is yes, it's time to set an appointment with Jesus. "For we do not have a High Priest Who is unable to sympathize with our weakness, but One Who was tempted in every way that we are, yet never sinned" (Heb 4:15).
In the end, it is a question of faith. Are you a man or woman of enduring faith? The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to us, and the Father professes that we are His beloved, favored children (see Mk 1:11). What other words do we need to hear so that our hardened hearts will be convinced? Let's not be like the scribes and Pharisees, always seeking a sign (see Mt 12:38). Pray for greater faith.
| PRAYER: | Father, give me a faith such that when I suffer through the trials of life, my fire-tried faith will give You praise, glory, and honor (1 Pt 1:6-7). |
| PROMISE: | "If any of you is without wisdom, let him ask it from the God Who gives generously and ungrudgingly to all, and it will be given him." –Jas 1:5 |
| PRAISE: | Through the trials of dealing with a mentally ill family member, Linda walks by faith. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College