Lifespring is called to be the Huios (mature sons) and in a Kingdom Family. As we pursue the purposes God has has for our individual lives and the church family, something we will not be able to avoid is suffering and trials.
Jesus, who was the example of the huios suffered much. He felt hungry, was anxious, oppressed… yet He was found to have no sin. Jesus shows us how the mature son is to align and endure suffering when he prayed to God, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done”.
We are not to avoid suffering, but we are to learn to trust God in the midst of it – recognizing that He is always working all things for good, to those who love him.
Below are 4 purposes in suffering – its not a formula – but sometimes God needs to get our attention or adjust our character for the assignment he truly has for us.
Take a moment and read through the 4 purposes. Just prayerfully ask the Lord to speak to you as you read it – to grab your spirit’s attention if He wants to speak to you through it.
Purpose #1: To cause us to repent
Is there something that we know is off in our lives? Get right before Him.
Purpose #2: To grow in the fear of the Lord
Have you been struggling in an area for a long time? Ask God to teach you the fear of the Lord. He will not punish you – He will show you the way out.
Purpose #3: To learn to depend on the Lord
Are you trying really hard to overcome or accomplish something ? Is it tiring you out? Making you feel anxious? Sometimes God wants to show you how much He loves you. Our wisdom is His foolishness.
Purpose #4: To reveal what is hidden in our hearts
Is there an area of your life where the fruit of the spirit is not evident or missing altogether? God wants EVERYTHING – let Him in.
Help us Father. We desperately need the Holy Spirit to guide us. Help us to be sensitive to Your spirit, Your promptings. Let us be hearers and doers of Your Word! May your grace and mercy increase and may we see you working inch by inch, day by day. Amen