Transformed by Trouble
Missey Butler
I heard someone say one time, “Testings will last as long as it takes to change our mind, attitude, and actions.” But isn’t it just like our human nature to respond with the “knee jerk” reaction of “Yeah, but I really can’t see the value or purpose behind all of this trouble and all of these trials”?
Our carnal mind is as shrewd as a lawyer looking for a loophole. Let’s face it: we don’t like tribulation one bit, and if we had our way, it would be “us” on “easy street” from here on out! But God’s Word tells us a different story.
In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; for I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
The mind of Christ knows that the servant is not above his Lord. The disciple is not above his Master, who learned obedience through the things He suffered (Hebrews 5:8). God is even now preparing a people who cannot be moved, upset, or frustrated by anything. The cry of His heart is for His sons and daughters to share His throne and shepherd the nations with a rod of iron (Revelation 2:26-27).
We have to be a people whose character is unshakable. Can we walk around in the furnace of testing without complaining? Can we still shout praises in the jail at midnight? Tall order, I know, but there is always a purpose in our trials, a purpose in our affliction, a purpose in our tribulations. All the temptations, tears, heartaches, unfaithful friends, loss of property, loss of business, peril, hateful neighbors, fiery furnaces, dens of lions, rugged crosses—all things too numerous to mention—are working for the good of God’s elect and are adding, though unseen now, an exceeding and eternal weight of glory to us.
“O Majestic heavenly Father, we know that all things work together in Your hands, and nothing comes into our lives without it first coming through You. All that comes to us is for our good and Your glory. Your desire for us is that we be refined and purified, even through fire. And at Christ’s return, we will be part of His bride, without spot or wrinkle, ready to reign with Him in glory forever. In all things, no matter how trying or difficult, teach us to rejoice and always trust in You.
cbn
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Well Seasoned in the Word
Cathy Irvin
As the world grows darker in sin, we must find time to trim our wicks and get filled up so that we have plenty of oil in our lamps. We should never let our flames grow dim. We are to be the light to the world and salt to the earth, but have we lost our flavor? If we are well seasoned in the Word and we maintain our prayer life, we should be making an obvious difference.
It takes soaking up the Word of God daily so that what comes forth from our lips is a sweet savor, an encouraging word to the hearer. It is so easy to become dull and bland without those times of refreshing in God’s presence. Nobody likes plain ole, plain ole anything.
Even a good steak many times needs some seasoning salt, a little garlic, butter, or steak sauce while it is marinating on the grill. The flavor of the meat is greatly enhanced -- and so it is with us. When our lives reflect Christ, it will be evident that after we have spent time with Him, we more and more will manifest His glory. The light will shine brightly for all to see.
People need to see Christ in us, the hope of glory, for them to want Him. Who wants what we have if we are not positive, and not full of joy and peace? I hear some Christians who always speak negatively. They are worrying all the time, and they are sad and gloomy. I think they must be lacking in some quality Bible study time, prayer, and church fellowship. We want those who do not know Him to say, “I know there is something different about you” or ask, “Why are you so happy?” Wouldn’t it be wonderful to hear them say, “I want whatever it is that you have”?
I remember that I said those very words more than 29 years ago. I gave my heart to the Lord while watching The 700 Club. I went to visit a local church. The people there were singing and clapping, and some even danced in the aisle to the songs. I was overwhelmed. I had always attended a very traditional church while growing up, and I felt no enthusiasm or joy in it at all. I recall listening to the message intently; I had blocked out everything and had focused intently on the preacher as he spoke. I sat on the edge of my seat like I was at a long-awaited concert.
At the close of the service, I remember a lady asking me if I wanted to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. I didn’t even know what she was talking about, but I said, “Whatever you people have, I want it!” I was gloriously filled that very evening and spoke in tongues. My life was changed forever, and I have felt the joy ever since.
We can share the things we have learned by being salt and light with other believers so that they can enjoy their Christian walk and be better witnesses. It is important to remember that we are not offering a “religion” to anyone. We are telling them about a relationship with a loving, living Savior who can transform their lives and not only give them the gift of eternal life, but also the abundant life while here on planet earth. Jesus wants to add some seasoning to their bland life.
Got your lamps filled with oil? Follow me! Let’s shine our lights and pour out some salt on those who need to taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him (Psalm 34:8, NKJV)!
cbn
Cathy Irvin
As the world grows darker in sin, we must find time to trim our wicks and get filled up so that we have plenty of oil in our lamps. We should never let our flames grow dim. We are to be the light to the world and salt to the earth, but have we lost our flavor? If we are well seasoned in the Word and we maintain our prayer life, we should be making an obvious difference.
It takes soaking up the Word of God daily so that what comes forth from our lips is a sweet savor, an encouraging word to the hearer. It is so easy to become dull and bland without those times of refreshing in God’s presence. Nobody likes plain ole, plain ole anything.
Even a good steak many times needs some seasoning salt, a little garlic, butter, or steak sauce while it is marinating on the grill. The flavor of the meat is greatly enhanced -- and so it is with us. When our lives reflect Christ, it will be evident that after we have spent time with Him, we more and more will manifest His glory. The light will shine brightly for all to see.
People need to see Christ in us, the hope of glory, for them to want Him. Who wants what we have if we are not positive, and not full of joy and peace? I hear some Christians who always speak negatively. They are worrying all the time, and they are sad and gloomy. I think they must be lacking in some quality Bible study time, prayer, and church fellowship. We want those who do not know Him to say, “I know there is something different about you” or ask, “Why are you so happy?” Wouldn’t it be wonderful to hear them say, “I want whatever it is that you have”?
I remember that I said those very words more than 29 years ago. I gave my heart to the Lord while watching The 700 Club. I went to visit a local church. The people there were singing and clapping, and some even danced in the aisle to the songs. I was overwhelmed. I had always attended a very traditional church while growing up, and I felt no enthusiasm or joy in it at all. I recall listening to the message intently; I had blocked out everything and had focused intently on the preacher as he spoke. I sat on the edge of my seat like I was at a long-awaited concert.
At the close of the service, I remember a lady asking me if I wanted to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. I didn’t even know what she was talking about, but I said, “Whatever you people have, I want it!” I was gloriously filled that very evening and spoke in tongues. My life was changed forever, and I have felt the joy ever since.
We can share the things we have learned by being salt and light with other believers so that they can enjoy their Christian walk and be better witnesses. It is important to remember that we are not offering a “religion” to anyone. We are telling them about a relationship with a loving, living Savior who can transform their lives and not only give them the gift of eternal life, but also the abundant life while here on planet earth. Jesus wants to add some seasoning to their bland life.
Got your lamps filled with oil? Follow me! Let’s shine our lights and pour out some salt on those who need to taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him (Psalm 34:8, NKJV)!
cbn