It is easy to thank God for the pleasant blessings of life. Everyone is thankful for material, health, and family blessings. We really find out the quality of our faith however when suffering, trials and tribulations come. On Wednesday evenings I have been teaching on the life of the great prophet Elijah. On Sundays, I have been preaching through Romans and I am finishing up chapter 8 on Sunday. These two studies have intersected in a powerful way for me.Elijah witnessed the mighty power of God first hand. He enjoyed the supernatural provision of God. He followed divine guidance. He rejoiced in great victories. Yet he was also a man with a nature like ours. He suffered, he hurt, he questioned. Through it all God was faithful to him. Elijah did not merely endure the suffering, he ultimately triumphed because of it. God specifically used the circumstances in which He placed Elijah to grow and develop his faith.
In Romans 8 the Word of God indicates that we suffer with Jesus so we can also be glorified with Jesus. Paul wrote that the present sufferings of this age are not even worth comparing with the glory to come. Creation and believers groan for renewal. The Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf with groanings. Yet we hope for what we do not see.
God has secured His purpose for us, to be conformed into the image of His Son Jesus. It is a certainty for all who are in Christ. No matter what we face in this life- affliction, anguish, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, sword, death, life, angels, rulers, things present, things to come, powers, height, depth- we are super conquerors.
I am asking God to help me see His hand in all things- the good, the bad, the ugly and everything in between. I am praying that He will give me a spirit of thanksgiving so that in everything I will give thanks, for this is the will of God for me in Christ Jesus. All things work together for the good.
Abba Father, increase my faith. Help me to be completely dependent on You and trust You in all circumstances. May I be thankful in all circumstances, even suffering, for your glory.
