Word for the day "The Glory of Suffering"
Romans 8:18 (NKJV) For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.Like so many people of God, my parents thought that if they honored God and dedicated their children to the Lord, they'd somehow be protected from pain, suffering, and life's difficult realities. Learning that their son, James Baker, Jr., at some point was afflicted in the throes of addiction helped them to see that this belief was false. What situation has happened in your life to that demonstrates to you at this point in your life now that difficult times are a part of our process in God?My parents wrestled not only with losing me to the life of addiction but also with their own feelings of guilt. They wondered what they could've done differently to keep their son from the addiction lifestyle. Sorrow and regret consumed them, but addiction was a part of my process with God and to know the Lord for myself! Today message is for somebody struggling in addiction, sickness, financial uncertainty, sexual identity crisis, and abandonment issues. I am not a glutton for punishment but there is Glory that comes from times of suffering, when we connect with God relationally (II Peter 5:10).In fact, God used that terrible incident to mold and deepen my parents’ faith. Suffering brought them face-to-face with change they'd never anticipated. It was in this dark and painful family experience that my parents learned more than ever about compassion, courage, forgiveness, and repentance. Their hearts were truly broken, but they were also truly changed for the better, and so was I! Glory to God this morning family of God!Point to ponder- What have you learned from suffering and pain? Don't be misguided by it; Don't come out the other side a bitter person. Look at your suffering as an opportunity for intimacy with God, a time to sense his love and compassion, and to grow closer to the Lord in this Lent season. Yes there is Glory in times of suffering family of God!Our Leadership team is especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in the month of March 2016 by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Mr. William Wilson, Ms. Gertrude Scott. Why don't you take the opportunity to write us on our blog and let us know how we are doing in serving you Great people, we'd love to hear from you! Follow me on Twitter @Elder James Baker, as I endeavor to encourage and empower leaders of today and tomorrow!Kingdom Blessings,Pastor James Baker, Jr.Thank you for using the Word Cup devotionals brought to you through Grace and Truth Leadership on (Word press). We are a faith-based, donor-supported ministry. If you have been touched by these daily devotionals, and would like to make a monthly pledge or a special gift of any amount, please use the link below to give as the Lord leads. Thank you so much!http://www.graceandtruthleadership.org/#!donate/vv9e2