May 14, 2008

My Utmost 05.14.08

Today's reading is a classic example of why I have quit reading through this devotional guide in the past. It regularly confronts me with questions and issues I would rather not think about.

Today's subject is "The Habit of Enjoying Adversity". See what I mean?

Most of us, myself included, look at adversity as something to be avoided. After all, isn't a relationship with Jesus supposed to bring "shady green pastures and quiet waters" with "cups" that are overflowing? So the idea of enjoying adversity seems almost contrary to a thriving relationship with Christ. And developing a habit of enjoying adversity? Isn't that masochistic?

No, it isn't. Adversity is the only path to growth. Here's how Oswald Chambers puts it...

"Our circumstances are the means God uses to exhibit just how wonderfully perfect and extraordinarily pure His Son is. Discovering a new way of manifesting the Son of God should make our heart beat with renewed excitement. It is one thing to choose adversity, and quite another to enter into adversity through the orchestrating of our circumstances by God’s sovereignty. And if God puts you into adversity, He is adequately sufficient to "supply all your need" ( Philippians 4:19 )."

Lord, help me develop the habit of enjoying adversity, for your glory.

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