As I write this I am flat on my back in bed as it is the only way to find relief from the pain of this most recent surgery. This title statement from Jerry Bridges came to mind today as it seemed all I could focus on is the pain.
“And there was given to me a pain…and I begged God three times to remove it” (2 Corinthians 12:7-8 – my paraphrase). I cannot remember how many times I have asked God to ease this pain. Maybe it is more spiritual to ask for relief than for total removal. Either way it is not happening. So then I am thinking how it really is easier to obey God than to trust Him.
I can reduce biblical directives to bite size manageable duties. In my own mind I am trusting God if I am obeying Him. But didn’t the Pharisees obey God? You could not find an outward fault in their lives. But they sure didn’t trust Him.
The Apostle Paul was placed in a situation where all his obedience to Jesus did not remove the pain he was experiencing in that particular situation. Rather, God promised Paul that he could experience the grace of God most in his weakest moments (vs. 9-10). Right now I am not reducing the Bible into manageable bites that even unsaved people can do, but I am reduced to trusting Him. Do I believe He is all wise? Do I really believe nothing can ever separate me from His love? Do I believe He is the sovereign Father who is gives me all His attention right now in order to help me know He is better than great health? Than a pain free existence? Will I trust Him beyond what I can see or control?
This time will likely pass and I should be on me feet again. But will I be able to look back and say I would not have traded the opportunity to trust Him as never before for anything? For it is Jesus Himself who is my grace; He comes to me in this situation that is beyond my control to assure me He is still in control, and I will not learn how great and loving He really is any other way right now.
Continued hugs and prayers..
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Yes, I see what you are saying! Trust is sometimes soooo hard during the “suffering”…and yet sooo needed! Prayers for you, and thanks for the insight you shared even in your pain. May Our Mighty Lord answer with pain relief soon for you.