Thursday, May 17, 2012

Not for Nothing

Romans 5:3-4
New Life Version (NLV)

3 We are glad for our troubles also. We know that troubles help us learn not to give up. 4 When we have learned not to give up, it shows we have stood the test. When we have stood the test, it gives us hope.

I was sitting here feeling a little bit sorry for myself about a few things and decided it was time to put some of my feelings to words.  So, I went to a place where I occasionally make a notes of scriptures, thinking that I should be able to find something that would apply to how I'm feeling right now.

Well, once again, God does His thing.  The very first scripture I looked at was this one.  Initially, this selection makes me want to shout "I am NOT glad for my troubles!!!"  But, as I read through I realize, of course,  that's not the point.  I am confident that God understands my initial reaction....He's not dumb...no one is "glad" for troubles or down times or dry times, etc. 

I don't like trouble.  Or anything that smacks of it.  The glad part is knowing there is a process and a purpose.   That changes my perspective quite a bit.  With the strength of God, I can press on and not give up.  I can stand the test.  I can have hope. 

I am very glad for things that give me hope.  And for the all patient One who knows just when to "say" the right thing and remind me that it is not all for nothing. 

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