Sunday, March 20, 2011

Rejoice in Suffering by Ann Elaine Broughton

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance…..” (Romans 5:3 NIV).

This winter I have had several health issues that are a result of my fibromyalgia. They aren't too serious, but causing enough pain to be irritating. I was feeling sorry for myself, because I don't handle pain that well. It is interesting how God has put several people in my path lately that have had much worse problems. One gal's older daughter fell into a bonfire and suffered third degree burns, got stung on her back by hornets, and is going to have some minor surgery. Well, I just stood there as she was telling me this and felt tremendously lucky that at least I didn't have to suffer like that. It also got my mind off myself and onto praying for her daughter who is suffering so much more than I am.

Persevering through the troubled times in our lives can be daunting, especially when they come in multiples. But centering ourselves on our own troubles only makes things worse. Reaching out to others helps us to stop dwelling on self-pity.

Paul says here that we are to praise the Lord when we have tribulations or sufferings. It is difficult to praise God through the tough times, but it is during those times that we really need to remember that the Lord loves us and is still with us. Persevere through your times of troubles, reach out to others, and praise God knowing He is there for you and will help you through whatever trial comes your way. When you have gone through your trial, then you can help others who are having difficulties. You can have true compassion for them because of what you have experienced. Since I know what it is like to be in pain, I have compassion for those who are suffering from fybromyalgia. Everyone needs compassion.

Dear Lord,

We know that troubled times will come to all of us. Help us to praise you for who you are, a mighty and awesome God, ready to give comfort to all who ask for it. Help us to persevere through our times of trouble knowing that after we have persevered we can help someone else.

In Jesus' name,

Amen

Perseverance: A devotion by Ann Broughton

“ And not only this, but we also exult in tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance proven cha...