Can great results come from situations that bring discomfort or even pain? Of course they can, as any athlete will attest. In any sport, it is understood that purposeful, even excruciating, training is necessary to win the prize as is accurately echoed in the phrase “no pain, no gain.” This reality is not reserved for…
There is nothing worse than a crushing trial. Since our natural inclination is to avoid discomfort, only authentic faith in Christ equips one to look beyond the valley of personal suffering to the pinnacle of suffering’s purposes. Maintaining this loftier perspective does not negate the reality or pain of walking through life’s valleys. A child…
A Response of Gratefulness for God’s Glory and Grace By Dr. Gary Rieben (website: Give Me That Book)—Used by Permission * “The next time you feel like complaining, remember that your garbage disposal probably eats better than 30% of the world’s population does.” Anonymous Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure,…
The typical definition of victory differs from God’s viewpoint on the subject. When believers in Christ understand God’s perspective and promise of victory in trials, they will deal with difficulties much differently than those who do not know the Lord. God’s Word presents three types of victory with regard to trials: All three types of…
by James Smith (1862) [The following was written more than 150 years ago by James Smith. His insightful perspective is timeless and eternally significant. He reminds us that sufferings of life are actually insignificant when compared to the eternal joy believers will realize in the presence of their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.] “For I reckon that…
Biblical Perspectives in Everyday Life Trials are a part of life and, often, these difficulties are approached solely from a personal perspective. For a believer in Christ, however, personal trials have the potential to benefit others in, at least, two specific ways. TRIALS ARE USED BY GOD TO EQUIP A BELIEVER TO BRING HIS COMFORT TO OTHERS…
Biblical Perspectives in Everyday Life I once heard someone give advice on a Christian radio station concerning our response to a friend’s plea for help in marital difficulty. The speaker started off well. She encouraged us to resist being critical of our friend’s spouse, to resist the temptation to give the latest counseling technique, and…
Biblical Perspectives in Everyday Life Wednesday started out as a not so great day. Actually, the problems started around 10 PM the night before. The temporary crown on my tooth popped out (for the second time in two days) just before I went to bed on Tuesday night. I called the dentist’s office and left a message…
God’s Word Speaks to Perseverance in Trials There may be times in your life when you think, “I can’t go on.” When tough times arrive, God’s promises remain true. Trust Him…you can “go on” with His help. Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through him who strengthens me. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, So we do not lose heart.…
God’s Word Speaks to His Mercy and Your New Life We are most thankful for gifts we don’t deserve. Such is the case of God’s mercy in granting new life…none of us deserve it, but because of His love, He gives it. Psalm 145:8-9, The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in…