II Corinthians 6:9-10 "As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things."
Paul seemed to rejoice in things that we try to avoid:
- Anonymity,
- Death,
- Chastisement,
- Sorrow,
- Poverty
In fact, these are part of a list that he gives for those who are in the ministry of God: Not just pastors or full-time church staff members, but all who are "workers together with him." (I Corinthians 6:1a)
Bottom line: If we want to be God's servants
(in our Home, in our Church, in our Workplace, in our World),
we are going to face difficulties.
Why?
There are 2 reasons:
- Christ uses difficulties to teach us about Himself, to draw us closer to Him, to chastise us and to make us more Christlike.
- Satan is going to try to hinder our service. The more Christ-like we become, the more power we have to reach others for the Lord.
So the trials, hardships, tribulations in our lives??? It's ALL good!
Either Christ is doing a work in us because He loves us so much; OR we are doing such a great job of ministring God's grace to others, that Satan is running scared!
Our storms take on a Divine glow when we know they have a greater purpose.
I Peter 4: 12-13a "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice…"
I Peter 4:14 "If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you"
Obtaining Mercy 