◄ Crushed But Not Despairing ►

Blessed Words

In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 we read: Blessed be the God, Who comforts us in ALL our afflictions. In 2 Corinthians 4:8 we are: hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair, while in James 1:3 we read: knowing that the testing of your faith produces PATIENCE. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

Spiritual Fruit

Galatians 5:22 tells us that the fruit of the Spirit is :-

LOVE:
joy,
peace,
long-suffering,
kindness,
goodness,
faithfulness,
gentleness,
self-control.

Common Suffering

Suffering is an experience common to man. The child of God is not exempted from suffering, nor was the Son of God immune from pain - knowing that suffering produces the fruit of the Spirit. Oh, what numerous kinds of suffering can afflict us, and how many various levels there are to cause us grief. There is much physical suffering that can affect this feeble mortal frame, reminding us that we have this treasure - in earthen vessels.

Consequences of Suffering

So much mental suffering can cause even greater anguish of the soul. The sharing in the wounds and pains of precious people; the aching anguish of unsaved loved ones. The deep remorse over personal sins and the searing pain of cruel misunderstandings - the lashing stab of the unchecked word or the unguarded remark.

Testings by Suffering

But remember that the testing of your faith produces long-suffering and gentleness. And remember that a soft and gentle answer turns away wrath. So be kind one to another.. bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, even as Christ forgave us and gave Himself for us.

Blessing of Suffering

How intense the searing heat. How fierce the hammers' blow. How deep the wound from the piercing sword. The heat of the flame and the weight of the hammer's iron is merciful and tender... Controlled by the hand of the Son of Man, Who was in all points tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore without hesitation and restriction.. commit ourselves under the hand of the almighty God, Whose purposes for us are infinitely wise and eternally good.