TRIALS EQUIP US FOR HELPING OTHERS
“Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” Psalm 34:5 NIV
Are there times in your live when circumstances seem to take control and overwhelm you? Do you spend hours, days, or even weeks moping, chastising, and blaming yourselves for the “punishment” that has befallen you? And do you, in your struggle to overcome your suffering, pour your woes unto any listening ear, searching for solutions? This is when spiritual discernment should play a critical part; for you see, something more important than your woe is happening. Once you recognize and understand this, you will appreciate the lesson and see this as a blessing. Let me explain.
Sometimes God in His infinite wisdom allows us to go through trials. It is His way of preparing us for the task that He has ordained for us, even before we were conceived—helping others through their troubled times. God chose you because He knew you could handle it. He knew long before you were born, the type of person you would be. He saw what a good teacher, counselor, and encourager you would be, after you were tried in the flames.
Because this truth may not be understood during your struggles, it is important to turn to Scripture for comfort. In James 1:2,3 (KJ) we read: “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” Hebrews 13:5b KJ “…for He (Jesus) hath said, ‘I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.’” Jesus also said: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28 KJ). And Isaiah 40:31(KJ) must not be missed: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Are you getting the picture?
Here’s what could happen after you’ve come through your trial: You find yourself in the park, for example, throwing breadcrumbs to the birds. A stranger joins you. Together you throw more crumbs at the gathering flock. Next, you engage in light conversation. The stranger finds it easy to talk to you. This soon develops into a cry for help from the stranger. You realize that you had just experienced the same emotions as the stranger and you are equipped to help him. Guess what? You begin to share with the stranger what you had experienced; how God helped you overcome your struggles; how you have become stronger from it. You might even tell the stranger that God might well be equipping them to be a help to some hurting person they might encounter.
You, my friend, have suddenly become a channel through whom the Triune God can do His work. Isn’t that beautiful?
So the next time you face difficulties in your life, instead of complaining, focus on what you might be learning. Find comfort from Scripture. Turn to God and say, “Okay, Father, thank you for choosing me to experiencing this trial. Give me the strength to cope, wisdom to understand, and awareness to know when I should apply it. Thank you, in Jesus name, Amen.”
Watch how your radiance, not shame, will draw hurting people to you! Then feel the inner joy you will experience when you are able to offer sound advice and bring healing to the wounded. Most of all, remember, life isn’t about us, it is about Him. He uses us to do His work! God Bless You!
