Glory in Pain...

Good morning brothers and sisters in Christ! I praise the Lord for the worship services we had yesterday and the way that God brought to mind those who have gone before us and have left us an example of faithful living.

John 11:1-16 talks about the time that Jesus received news concerning the illness of his dear friend Lazarus. At the time, Jesus did not show too much concern but rather assured his disciples that "this sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it” (John 11:4). And that is just what happened.

How can a time of illness glorify God? How a time of suffering, pain, crisis, etc., be a time where God is glorified? How can such times be times of edification for us? Of course, humanly speaking it is impossible to endure such things with any hope of any “good” resulting. After all, pain is pain and suffering is suffering. However, when our hope is in the “Higher Power”, then it is possible to endure such trials with a certain degree of confidence. Especially because the Incarnate Jesus can understand that pain with us since he himself felt our pain, sadness, suffering, etc. (i.e. his pain for Lazarus’ death).

Whenever we have trials to endure, God is glorified when we trust and hope in the fact that Jesus has endured those very trials and can be the one who strengthens us through it all.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you that you are not far from feeling my trials. Walk with me this day and everyday as I face life’s trials and as you strengthen me, glorify your Name in my life. In your Son’s name I pray. Amen.

Blessings on your day!

By grace alone,
Pastor David