I'd like to share a devotional I read yesterday that really ministered to my heart!
On September 19th, from a book called "A Cup of Comfort"
edited by James S. Bell and Stephen R. Clark:
Life hurts, people make us mad, conflicts and anger ensue as we struggle to avoid pain. But the path around a dilemma is frequently not avoidance or pain reduction. God delivers the gift of a trial to us and the correct response could be - are you ready for this? - to embrace it. To tough it out joyfully, sharing the pain with no one but Him as you wait for His deliverance, even if it never comes on your terms.
Mining the depths of hurt and anger with tools given through the Holy Spirit can yield the most precious jewels. These are the gems of experience, maturity and wisdom with which He adorns our lives as He quietly heals the hurts.
When they come, if all we do is struggle against troubles, we may miss the opportunity to grow and be strengthened in grace and mercy. In fact, we just may miss Him.
God walks with you through troubles and joys.
The author, SRC, also referenced Psalm 4:4
"Don't sin by letting anger gain control over you.
Think about it overnight ad remain silent."
That is a good reminder. Thanks for sharing my friend!
ReplyDeletehugs,
tara
Sure is some good stuff. God walks through everyday with us...we just need to remind each other of it from time to time.
ReplyDeleteLove and hugs,
Beck
Thanks for the post, Jess. Don't we all need this reminder occasionally?!
ReplyDelete"if all we do is struggle against troubles, we may miss the opportunity to grow and be strengthened in grace and mercy." I have found this to be so true. Thanks for this timely reminder!!
ReplyDeleteWow...very powerful thoughts. And I love how the word, "jewel" is found in the middle of this devotion. Hmmmm..."Jewels for the journey".
ReplyDelete