Psalm 119:71 – “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn Your decrees.”
A man who was deep in debt, had to walk past the door of a wealthy businessman every day. The rich man, who had no idea what it was like to be poor, learned of the debt-ridded man’s plight and observed that he seemed very downcast. On day, as the poor man walked by, the wealthy man threw a heavy bag out the door. It struck the passer-by, slightly injuring him. Seeing no one around, he picked up the bag and began to limp away. As he did, he heard the clinking of coins. He opened the bag and to his amazement, found enough money to pay off his debt. Just then, he heard a voice from the businessman’s door calling, “Keep it – it’s yours.”
Sometimes life’s troubles hit us like that heavy bag, knocking us down and causing us injury. But God can bring great gain into our lives through these burdens and trials. Perhaps we feel as if His hand has dealt us a severe blow. God, however, does not take pleasure in our pain. Instead, He offers us help and spiritual health we need to see us through our difficulties. Here’s how Paul explained it: “For our light affliction which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” – 2 Corinthians 4:17
CH Spurgeon said, “Our afflictions come to us as blessings, though they frown like curses.” Rather than questioning God and grumbling at the burdens He has sent, let’s hold fast to His goodness. Then our burdens will become blessings in disguise.
May the Lord bless you. Love from your pastor, Daren.
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