.jpg)
We're looking at a devotional series titled, "8-Principles for embracing trials," and it is based off the Scripture in James 1:2 where we are commanded to, "Count it all joy when you face various trials." To be able to "Count it all joy," we must realize, God is allowing these trials as part of His way of shaping and transforming us to be like Christ, and to be properly prepared for Christian ministry.
In Part 3, we looked our third principle for embracing trials, which is, "God is allowing us to go through trials to keep us from being dependent upon our earthly possessions." So, lets take a look at our fourth principle for embracing trials.
4. The Trials allowed by God here on earth will help us to keep our hope fixed on eternity.
I have seen many people go through the trials of chronic health issues and major injuries, only to lose all hope when they place their hope in medicine and doctors. They can become despondent and dejected to think about their future - because they feel their future is limited in their life here on earth. This is a lie from the enemy; tempting us to believe we need to be living for the here and now - this is all there is. But this is not what the Bible teaches. 2Corinthians tells us our body is but a, "Temporary tent."
For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2Corinthians 5:1 (NKJV)
In the next couple of verses we are given a proper perspective of what we should be thinking upon with regard to this temporary body and the Heavenly one awaiting us.
We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. 2Corinthians 5:8 (NKJV)
I have seen others experience these same debilitating physical symptoms but choose to put their hope in, and look forward to, God's provision of a new body - and to being with Him.
The Apostle Paul had a thorn in the flesh - a physical ailment that continually plagued him - and this is what he said in humility and with a willingness to be used by God -
For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you.Philippians 1:23-24 (NKJV)
When we face physical trials and our health is failing, we must understand our hope is to be in Heaven. This earth is not our home; it is just a temporary stopping point in eternity where we are given a short time to make a critical decision as to where we will choose to spend eternity. When we face a physical trial and we have our blessed hope on eternity, there will be the light of Christ shining within us brightly for all to see - others will be drawn to this light and will want to know why we have such great hope.
Ultimately our actions speak much louder than our words. By being cheerful and counting it all joy while in the midst of trials, we show people our active faith in God's promises.
Hey Christian, the next time you experience health, or financial issues, start to think about eternity and where you will be spending it. Let God's promises contained within His Word about eternity wash away any thought of depression or sadness you might be tempted to feel. Think upon God's truth rather than Satan's lie, and continue to win souls to God as you actively walk in faith.
STUDY QUESTION: What can we learn about our future and our responsibility of sharing this with others based on the Scriptures contained within this devotional?
PERSONAL INVENTORY: Are you limiting your hope to being based on the things of this world - things such as wealth, health, or your future?
APPLICATION: Take your eyes off of your retirement here on earth and place it on living for eternity in Heaven with God and the body of believers.
No comments:
Post a Comment