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DAY 25
Point to Ponder: There is a purpose behind every problem.
Verse to Remember: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 (NIV)
Question to Consider: What problem in my life has caused the greatest growth in me?
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So... The beginning of this chapter tells me that I will always be faced with problems. I will face them 24 hours a day. This had not been an encouraging start.
ReplyDeleteAh, on pg. 194, there is hope! "God uses problems to draw you closer to himself. The Bible says, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit."
I've come to realize it's through circumstances that our faith is built and our character challenged. In the good times; when things are running smoothly, I don't think of God as much (sad to say.) When there are problems in my life I then recognize God's protection and His enduring love.
These issues with family(discussed in the earlier posts) has really taught me to search out God's perspective on what HE thinks of me and not those around me. I also have learned patience, really waiting on God to let me know what the next action plan will be. Patience is one of my weak spots along with being in control. Giving over the family situation to God has been freeing. I let Him take care of everything- He is much wiser than me =)
The Bible verse above is true He has restored my heart.
I think this is a great answer to the common question, "Why does a good God allow bad things to happen?". Part of it is that he allows suffering and pain to remind us of our need for Him, and to help build and test our character.
ReplyDeleteI liked this part on page 197: "We know that troubles produce patience. And patience produces character. What happens outwardly in your life is not as important as what happens inside you." I'm really wanting God to change me more on the inside so I can take a great character with me to Heaven. Obviously, I don't want troubles just to test/grow my patience, but I'm hoping when they do come that I will handle them with the knowledge that they are for God's purpose.
I've been fortunate not to have major problems, but if I have to choose one, I would probably say growing up with overprotective parents. My folks truly are wonderful people and I love them dearly, knowing they only want my best, yet their overattachment and overprotection in my life has been a big source of frustration over the years. But I think it has helped me to grow, and continues as I mature, to learn more patience and develop my sense of independence. I think I've also learned to respond (instead of reacting negatively) in love, particularly when things get tense. I know this is something that will also be tested in the year ahead and will have to trust God to spread his grace around.
Oops, almost forgot I wanted to acknowledge... that when I realize I am helpless in a given situation and simply pray to Jesus asking for His peace and asking Him to take my burden I always feel better. That doesn't mean the situation is resolved. It just means that my stress, frustration, or whatever changes pretty quickly to a sense of calm because I realize... there's nothing I can do, but God can handle it.
ReplyDeleteIt's a pretty cool feeling knowing that I don't have to have things all worked out! God is in control :)
It was wierd in a good way to answer my last question and have that answer be the start of the next chapter. I was really glad to have this chapter and learned a lot.
ReplyDeleteThe problem in my life that has caused the most growth is probably family as well. It's hard to "deal" without family, no matter how poorly they may treat you. But God has shown me that he will care for me better than a family ever could.
I want to maintain the mindset that hardship is for God's glory and his purpose. And I make soooooooooo many mistakes all the time. I want to keep remembering that I am a work in progress, and hopefully my mistakes won't outweigh my progress.
I thought this was an awesome chapter because it gives hope. One of my favorite verses of scripture has always been John 16:33~ "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." God promises us that we are going to have trouble in this world, but He also tells us, in the same breath, that it has been overcome.
ReplyDeleteSometimes it is difficult to rejoice in the tough times. However, these are the times when I feel closest to God and rely on Him most. One of the things that I am learning through many different trials, currently and in my recent past, is just to trust God and His master plan fully. This is something that I am striving for and working on daily.