Read the following which i have shortened as a useful reminder when I face obstacles and trials ....
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It's true that sometimes things seem hopeless, even to believers, but the Bible offers clarity and perspective as well as tells us the purposes and reasons for the trials in our life.
If you want to be a growing Christian, you should read, study and love God's Word; you need to have a prayer life; and you must be actively involved in the church.
"Why Does God Allow Trials in the Life of the Believer?"
James 1:2-4, which says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
5 Reasons:
1. God allows trials in our lives so that we will grow up spiritually.
It is like going to the gym, although I don't like to workout, it strengthens me and makes me grow physically. It is also true in our spiritual lives as well, "Trials are God's gym where you're broken down to be built up. … You won't like it, but you will like the results."
2. Even when things look bleak, all things work together for God's glory and your good
Genesis 50:20: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."
God allows us to be tested, but never more than what we can handle, because even the devil can sometimes serve the purposes of God.
A believer will emerge stronger after the trials, unlike non-believers, who may turn away for God. "Trials can determine if you're really a Christian,"
3. God's ultimate purpose for us is that we might be conformed into the image of Jesus
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters," (Romans 8:28, 29).
The benefits of certain trials we are going through cannot be discovered until we go to Heaven. "Just know that God is at work."
We need perseverance to thrust God.
4. Suffering can bring glory to God.
We can glorify God by remaining faithful to Him and continuing to trust Him despite difficulties and trials.
There are also times when God is glorified through His intervention. God still does miracles today.
5. Suffering can be used by God to prepare us for a special task
"When you've gone through something in life, and have survived it, you can be a great comfort to someone who's going through it."
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