In our journey with the Lord there is a promise that remains unyielding, steadfast, and true. This promise supersedes the here and now, and the highs and lows. Our hearts and minds must remain fixed upon this promise, as Jesus Himself fixed his eyes on the joy set before Him! (Acts 2:25-27)
PAIN WITH PURPOSE
As with Jesus and the testimonies of the saints found throughout the Word, including those mentioned in Hebrews 11, pain and suffering seem to be a topic that’s unavoidable. We don’t hope for pain, chase after it, but its reality is often present. What we do with pain, or how we view pain is vital for our spiritual maturity. I’ve heard many in times of suffering speak of beliefs that are inaccurate and in fact harmful to their very soul!
Our faith doesn’t rest in our perfect circumstances in this life, rather our faith rests in the finished work on Calvary! Our circumstances don’t always validate this promise. Our emotions don’t always validate this promise. Rather, God’s Word and proven love validates this promise in our hearts whether we see its evidence today or not!
This may not be popular theology today, but you can’t remove the Cross from Christianity! In fact, the cross precedes the power of resurrection! We cannot bypass the Cross and still know it’s power, nor can we experience the Cross without its suffering. There is a point that we must choose by His grace made available to pick up our cross and follow. Each of us are called to no longer identify with this life. We must no longer find our identity with people, performance, possessions, power, and even our past! There is a dying to self that must be done in order that we would come to the place of finding our life in Him! The theology of the Cross cannot substitute the experience of the Cross in our lives. So you see, pain surrendered to the goodness of God, rather than the bitterness of the soul can be used powerfully of the Lord to accomplish divine purpose! Our hearts therefore must be fixed on that which is unmoving, unshakable, and never ending!
QUESTIONS:
1. What is the promise that remains true? What should our eyes remain fixed upon? (The promise is, “He will not leave my soul in hell.” That’s the good news that was ministered from the text Sunday. 🙌🏼)
2. Read and discuss John 12:24-25, Matthew 16:25, and 2 Tim. 2:12
3. How do you normally respond in hard times? (Angry, bitter, self-pity, companies, etc.) What can you do instead?
