Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering. . . . But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ.(1 Peter 4:12-13) Many hours of waiting were necessary to enrich Davids harp with song. And hours of waiting in the wilderness will provide us with psalms of thanksgiving and the sound of singing (Isa 51:3). The hearts of the discouraged here below will be lifted, and joy will be brought to our Fathers heavenly home. What was the preparation for Jesses son, David, to compose songs unlike any others ever heard before on earth? It was the sinful persecution he endured at the hands of the wicked that brought forth his cries for Gods help. Then Davids faint hope in Gods goodness blossomed into full songs of rejoicing, declaring the Lords mighty deliverances and multiplied mercies. Every sorrow was yet another note from his harp, and every deliverance another theme of praise. One stinging sorrow spared would have been one blessing missed and unclaimed. One difficulty or danger escaped—how great would have been our loss! The thrilling psalms where Gods people today find expression for their grief or praise might never have been known. Waiting on God and abiding in His will is to know Him in the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings (Phil 3:10) and to be conformed to the likeness of his Son (Rom 8:29). Therefore if Gods desire is to enlarge your capacity for spiritual understanding, do not be frightened by the greater realm of suffering that awaits you. The Lords capacity for sympathy is greater still, for the breath of the Holy Spirit into His new creation never makes a heart hard and insensitive, but affectionate, tender, and true. Anna Shipton I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. 1 Timothy 1:12 Sent from the Streams in the Desert Devotional. For devotionals like this one for your iPhone, visit us at 43rdElement
Posted on: Wed, 19 Mar 2014 09:22:24 +0000
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