God uses our suffering as a means for Him to receive greater glory, and us to receive a greater blessing. Without pain we can’t feel joy to the fullest. Without hunger we don’t enjoy as much the bounty of having enough. Without first being weary we cannot appreciate the grace of rest as we abide in the vine. In such we see the grace of God to His people. In such we see how everything is turned for good. Had I not been subject to rejection I would not appreciate with the same value my soon to be husband. Without being despised I would not as much appreciate love. For those whose burdens have been light, not as much of the strength of the Savior is known. He is not needed as much, and so He is not loved as deeply. Rejoice, for what the enemy has taken God will see restored to you, and you will know it when you see it. God waits to restore everything that has been taken. Our affliction is light and momentary, and the glory that God will reveal in us is not comparable to it as the apostle Paul points out (Romans 8:18). The cross of Jesus that goes before us makes burdens light. Do not be afraid. Wait upon the Lord and hope in His promise. He works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28). God isn’t going to keep something that will make you grow stronger and deeper in fellowship with Him from happening. He loves you to much to let life aways be easy. It is in the dark that a lamb learns to trust the Shepherd, not the light. There is no need for trust in the light, for the Shepherd can be clearly seen. But to trust when the voice in the dark says “I’m still with you” or when you hear no voice at all, takes faith, and faith must be grown, and tested. If you are waiting for your restoration to come, take heart. He has promised to make it good. He said to a few weeks ago when painful memories came to my mind, “Have I damaged you so much that you cannot recover? No. I am the potter and I know my clay”. Every blow that God strikes he is able to restore. If you are experiencing that restoration, do not forget what it was like when you were in the valley. Do not forget his kindness in the dark as you stand in the sunlight; thank Him for the suffering that you were called to endure. Remember it not with bitterness or pain but with joy, and thankfulness to the One who has ordained every step of our lives, and always will. He knows how to mold us into the likeness of Jesus. As Christ endured the cross, so must we learn to endure ours. He promises it will turn out for our good.
With very great love,
~Lady Redeemed
Lady Redeemed 