Definition: Trouble (tra' bull), when circumstances or people don't go well and, if not careful, one can find their day ruined (Terry's Dictionary of Brief Explanatory Concepts).
Trouble is a sly blessing. Because it has purpose it is valuable and because it has value one can conclude its purpose. Stress and difficulty are not a wast of time. Trouble is not a non-kingdom item. It fits very well in God's scheme of developing His ministries as well as His ministers. Trouble 101 is required; not an elective. Trouble 201 is also required as is 301, 401, and 501.
Crushing encounters and disappointing information present opportunities to determine whether we are going to be believers only when on the mountain top or in the valley as well. Our spiritual development is dependent on things going wrong. We need people skills to break down. We must have these elements in our path to flush out our own crud. God's children are growers; we are to grow up in Him. So, as I often tell my Memorial loved ones, whether your day is a good day or a bad day....you are having a good day....Romans 5:1-5.
And...then there's that other statement which counts for something: Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation.....I Peter 4:12-13.
This nice thing about trouble is it both benefits and blesses us. Don't reject rejection. Learn from it; grow through it.
2 comments:
Good stuff again, Terry. I think God is teaching us to trust him through the trouble we experience. One of the greatest things we can learn to do is to trust God completely..but we will never learn this if life is perfect or always going well. It is only in times of trouble that we can learn to trust God's will and plan for our lives.
Terry, thanks you for this post. You have encouraged me greatly reminding me of joy in all things. I can relate to your post so well.......... and I will continue to grow, listen, learn, serve, and touch others in His name. Again, thank you from a fellow servant moving on past the pain........ into every glorious new day.
Eddie
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