Tag: Hardships

In This Issue:
There Is A Reason
… But God Had Different Plans

Volume: 977    October 4, 2024
Theme: Why?

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There Is A Reason
Bill Brinkworth

While walking my four-footed friend, Buddi, I almost walked into a thread from which a one-inch green worm descended.  It hung 10 feet from a hanging oak branch.  The barely noticeable thread was used to safely lower the creature that distance.

As I watched the creature work, he struggled and wiggled.  His efforts, however, seemingly did nothing to lower him, let alone the five more feet to the ground.  Finally, he was still, but to my surprise, more thread was quickly produced from his posterior, and he was lowered safely and speedily to the ground.  After touching the ground, he wiggled away as if nothing had happened.

How similar is that creature’s 15-foot journey to what many experience.  Life often throws serious obstacles in the way of many.  They start out attempting to deal with the situation.  There may be some progress, but shortly they quit.

As the little worm experienced, many attempts to remedy a bad situation do not seem to get anywhere.  People struggle; they wrestle with the problem the best they can, but soon, they get tired and stop.  Then, out of nowhere, it seems the problem is solved, and they glide gently through the situation they never thought they would conquer.

For a Christian, a daunting situation is often when God will allow a change in one’s life.  Nothing that happens to us is a surprise to God.  He always has a plan for us that we often do not recognize.

Some believe life’s catastrophes are a punishment allowed by God.  For some, they may be.  The unpleasant predicament may be a price-tag for doing wrong, disobedience, or even sin.  Hopefully, the struggle will get the person’s attention, and they will change the direction they are going.

Years ago, my friend Kenny fell off a high ladder.  As he lay there knowing parts of his body were broken, he immediately went to God in prayer and asked, “Is this accident for something I have done or haven’t done?”  When no reminder of wrongdoing evaded his thought life, Kenny quickly assumed the fall would have another purpose in his life and prepared to endure what the Lord allowed.

For others, the challenge may be for another purpose.  The reasons can be different for each person.  No one should assume they know why a person has the trials they are experiencing.  Only God knows the real reason!
“When men are cast down, then thou shalt say, There is lifting up; and he shall save the humble person.” Job 22:29

Some may go through fires of tribulation to teach a lesson requiring trust or patience for future benefits.  For others, the trial may move one in another direction, to keep them from further hurt from an unseen future calamity, the consequences of living in a sin-cursed world (sin often hurts more than the sinner), to use their character to show others how they should react in a similar situation, or many other reasons.
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:” I Peter 5:6
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you.” James 4:10

As the wiggling inchworm soon figured out, when attempts to fix a situation are seemingly for naught, relax and trust God to do what He will.  Do not develop a blame-God-attitude, but trust, be patient, and have faith that His leadership in handling the bad situation will bring glory to God and be for your best.

“He who knows no hardships will know no hardihood.  He who faces no calamity will need no courage.  Mysterious though it is, the characteristics in human nature which we love best grow in a soil with a strong mixture of trouble.”  
— Harry Emerson Fosdick

… But God Had Different Plans
Bill Brinkworth

We all, at one time or another, have had hard times.  Sometimes, those difficulties are caused by a group or an individual.  It seems that they are in control and changing the direction of one’s life. 

However, even if situations are meant to hamper or hurt, there could be a good result in the future.  Joseph in Genesis can certainly attest to that. 

The young man could not help that his father, Israel, favored him.  Israel’s blessings on his son made Joseph’s siblings quite jealous.  Their jealousy festered, and their hearts became bitter to the innocent younger brother.  It was not long until their bitterness resulted in their throwing the boy into a pit.  An opportunity arose, and they sold their sibling into slavery.

From there, many hardships happened to the teenager.  Joseph was sold in Egypt to Potiphar.  There, he served his master, but “.. the Lord was with Joseph…” (Genesis 39:1).  He was in a bad situation, but God had a purpose for the boy.

Later, a lie from Potiphar’s wife got Joeseph thrown into prison.  Even in this horrible situation, “… the Lord was with Joseph…” (Gen. 39:21).

While in prison and after some time, God used Joseph.  After a series of God-directed events, Joseph became second in command over Egpyt. 

Joseph spared Egypt and his family from a consuming famine using his new lofty leadership role.  All the terrible happenings in his life were to place him where God would use him to help many. 

Those hard times may have been intended to abuse and use him, but the hand of God allowed those circumstances to put Joseph in the place where the Lord needed him.  As the powerful man stood before his family, Joseph was able to say to his brothers, “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.” (Gen. 45:5  Also: Gen. 45:7, 8).  Joseph realized that God had plans for him and put him in the right place by allowing him to face some difficulties.

Others have also found themselves facing unfair treatment, as did Joseph.  While wearied and discouraged from tumultuous trials, they also discovered that God used events to put them in a position where God could use them.

God allowed Satan to do his worst to the godly Job.  After perhaps a year of losing possessions and having friends and family turn against the non-wavering child of God, Job was blessed with much more than he originally had.
“And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.” Job 42:10

Moses remembered all the years Israel faced hardship and servitude in Egypt.  Still, he saw how God dealt with the pharaoh and the Egyptians in His timing.  Israel then saw that their prayers for freedom were answered as God led them to a land He had for them.
“… 4 Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.” Exodus 19:3-4

God used the hatred of the Jews,  the cruelty of Roman soldiers, and the betrayal of Judas to give us eternal hope because of Jesus’ death.  God’s only Son was beaten, mocked, embarrassed, and nailed to the cross so that sinners would have an acceptable payment to cover their sins.  We are blessed because of His sacrifice, and now Jesus sits on the right hand of God.

The apostle Paul also was on the receiving end of unfair treatment.  However, what seemed like misfortune on his part, God used those methods to make him a witness in Rome.
“And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said,  Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.” Acts 23:11

We should also recognize that perhaps something happening in our life is ordered by the Lord.  A child of God was bought by the price of His Son’s blood.  If born-again into His family, we are His.  God will use His own as he sees fit.
“For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” I Corinthians 6:20  Also: I Cor. 7:23.

So, child of God, first examine yourself if you find yourself in trying times.  Are you reaping what you have sowed in sin’s field, and maybe you are facing iniquity’s consequences?  Is it possible that you are not a child of God, and He is using your situation to get you to turn to Him for salvation?  If you are sure of your salvation, is God trying to get your attention to change your course?

If self-examination does not reveal any reasons, it may be quite possible that you are in the same boat as the above heroes of the faith were and where many other Christians have found themselves.  It may be God has future plans for you, and He is moving you to a place where He can use you.
“Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.  4 The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.”  Proverbs 16:3-4

Be encouraged, Christian, if you find yourself in a similar situation like so many others had.  You are on the winning side, so be patient, always do right, and wait for the Lord to use you the way He desires.
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

“God has one Son without sin, but he never had a son without trial.”
— Spurgeon

In This Issue:
Why Me? 
In Moody’s Bible
God Knows the Way
The “Bad” Times

Volume: 964      July 1, 2024
Theme: Hard Times

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Why Me?
Bill Brinkworth

Paul was a man used greatly by God.  With God’s helping hand, this evangelist survived shipwrecks, beatings, persecutions, imprisonments, and other ill-treatments.  With God’s miraculous help, this man was used in healings, revivals, and many miracles.  However, as used of God as he was, Paul still had a personal aliment (II Corinthians 12: 7)

Commentators have strained at attempting to identify Paul’s “thorn in the flesh.”  God has chosen not to make clear to us what it was.  No matter what it was, Paul made it clear that it was an infirmity he faced.  Three times, Paul pleaded with God to remove the malady from him (II Cor 12. 8).  God’s answer was “… My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness…” (II Cor. 12: 9).

Here was a man who had seen glorious things in the third Heaven (vs. 2-4) and had been delivered from many horrible things, yet God wanted Paul to experience this physical problem.  God could have easily healed his body, but His answer was that His grace was enough for him to live with the problem and that Paul’s infirmity would be a vehicle to make him spiritually stronger.

If God would allow one of His great spiritual warriors to face such a battle, we, too, should not be surprised if we face health problems or other problems.  As with most trials, we can do one of two things when going through testing.  We can either shake our fists at God and be angry with Him, which is not the wise thing to do when we need Him the most, or get close to Him and rely on Him to get us through the struggle.

Paul chose not to be foolish and get angry at God.  He decided that if God allowed him to go through the problem, he would have a good attitude about it (vs. 10) and give God the glory.  In doing so, Paul was learning precisely what God wanted him to learn: that when he was weak, he was the strongest with God’s help (vs. 10)!

Some cry, “Why me?” when they go through a trial.  My question to them is, “Why shouldn’t it be you?”

In Moody’s Bible
Dr. Harry Ironside

In the margin of Moody’s Bible, opposite Phillippians 4:19, I found his notes there:

• “The Christian’s banknote: from the bank’s President — ‘My God’.
• Promise to pay —  ‘Shall supply’.
• The amount — ‘all you need’.
• The bank’s capital — ‘according to his riches in glory.’
• The cashier’s name — ‘Christ Jesus’”.

Moody noted that the amount was left blank for each to write in the measure of his need.  Fortunately, Heaven’s bank is always available.  The Cashier is always present.  The capital of the bank has never been impaired.

The Christian is to ask, according to his present need, and must use at once the riches provided.  Christ’s promises are more than beautiful sentiments to be hung on the wall for decorative purposes.  They are not intended as life savers for use only in time of shipwreck.  There is no excuse for spiritual poverty in the presence of such divine provision.

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19

God Knows the Way
Author Unknown

God knows the way of the righteous,
Even though it be dark and drear,
He knows when we’re tired and weary,
Our burdens to heavy to bear;
We ask, as the shadows lengthen,
“Lord, lift Thou this burden of care!”
And often, His voice replieth,
“My child, I placed it for you there!
With grace that is all-sufficient,
That you might grow stronger in Me,
So trust, weary child, your Father,
He knoweth and careth for thee!”

“When life knocks you to your knees, pray there.”

The “Bad” Times
Bill Brinkworth

No one likes troubles, trials, and tribulations, but we all will or have had them.  Since we will all encounter them in our lives, viewing them in the proper light only makes sense.

Those “bad” times many times are sent by God to make us into what He desires us to be.  They will teach us lessons in life’s school that will never leave us the same.  It can be for this reason God preserved the words in James 1:2-4:
“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [trials] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.  But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”

We are to take these challenging times as “joyful times.”  How can anything as miserable as some have experienced be joyful?  Usually, a lesson is learned, and thankfulness is realized after the fire of tribulation is passed through – when we’re out on the other side of the calamity.  It is then we can have “joy.”

After one goes through so many “temptations” and remembers how they benefited from those experiences, one can develop the right attitude the next time unpleasantness comes into view.  “Ah, I don’t like the class, but the lesson I will learn will be worth it.”

The Bible gives us many reasons why hard times come into our lives.  Those amidst trials learn many lessons:

• Some did not learn their lesson when taking the “course”.  Later, they faced more challenging training further down life’s path because they never learned it the first time.
• Sometimes, those tempestuous times are meant to strengthen us.  We can be made stronger when awed at His deliverance from the impossible.  When we reach that point, we can look back and say, “Only God could have gotten me through that”.
  “He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.” Deut. 10:21
• Other times, our turbulent trials build our faith after seeing what God has done.  After passing through enough tests and remembering how we were delivered in the past, we have faith that He will guide us through the next difficulty.
  “Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.”  I Samuel 12:24
• Part of what happens when our faith is strengthened is that we are taught.  We learn more about Him, what He can and will not do, and His other character traits when we see God work.

Many lessons can be taught from life’s trials.  When they were led through the wilderness, Israel learned to fear and obey God.  Jonah’s experience also taught him to follow – the first time.  Paul’s blinding experience on the road to Damascus taught him there was only one way to please God, and it was His way, not the traditions or religions of man.  After Jesus healed the blind man from a lifetime of darkness, the man learned of His power.  All these events changed the lives of the ones going through what they had originally thought were unwanted times.  What would they have been like if they didn’t go through them?

Certainly, tough times can change us.  Jonah’s attitude changed after his stay in the whale’s belly.  Saul had a new perspective on persecuted Christians after he was one.  Joseph certainly appreciated all the hardships he went through when he saw how it prepared him for his future.  We can lose all our self-righteousness in a hurry when we face trials and realize that only God can make a difference during those times.

Reading the Scriptures, one can quickly see how the hard times were used to teach God’s people how He could protect them.  God used hornets, earthquakes, darkness, disease, fear, and water, to name a few, to guard and direct His own.  What an unforgettable lesson must have been learned when they saw the mighty works of their protective Father.

Hard times can also direct us.  The trials we go through many times change our direction and put us on the course He desires – much like the detour that no one likes.  If the detour did not change our route, we would end up in the construction workers’ freshly dug trench, possibly damaging our vehicle and ourselves.  The many extra miles were worth the aggravation we could have faced in the body shop or the hospital.  When we look back on what could have happened, we can be joyful about what did not occur and thankful for God’s direction.

Not all trials are punishment from God, but some are.  Our miseries can be an act of God to correct us when we do wrong.  A suitable punishment will change wrong behavior – and quickly.  When God’s people were doing wrong, God sent enemies, bondage, plagues, and a host of other deterrents to change their mindset.  Parents sometimes have to punish their children for wrong behavior; our heavenly Father sometimes needs to do this, too.

Not too many people get excited when terrible things happen to them, but as you will learn if you have not already, there is much to be learned from the “bad times.”  Not one spiritual and close-to-God Christian got that way without going through many heartaches.  Sometimes, the most spiritual have gone through the most.  There is a connection.  Hard times can have a positive effect on us if we learn our lesson properly.

In This Issue:
Lord, What Would You Have Me Do?
Why Do I Have to Be on The Leash?
Lord, Why Am I in This Storm?”

Volume: 935     December 4, 2023
Theme: Why?

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Lord, What Would You Have Me Do?
Bill Brinkworth

“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.” Proverbs 16:9

In this treasure trove of God’s wisdom, Proverbs 16:9 explains why some of what is happening in lives is often not understood.  The reason, especially for the child of God, may be God is directing one’s path in the direction He knows is best for them.

We often have plans and goals, but many times they do not coincide with what God’s will for our lives is.  Some dream of being a doctor, nurse, pilot, police officer, or what they are interested in doing, but never consider what God has for them to do.

No one knows us better than God, and he may know that the direction we desire for ourselves may hurt and keep us from what is best for us.  Each of us has unique abilities, and only God knows what they are and where they should best be exercised in this needy world.

As a visually handicapped person may need more guidance than a seeing-eye dog or a prodding white cane, so do we.  We think we know best but are often blind to what is good for us.  Unsure and unknowingly, we stumble through life searching for what to do.

When we are about to make wrong steps in harmful directions, it is then that the Lord may step in and redirect us.  Often, we may not like where we are going, but trusting faith should reason with us that Father knows best.  God’s way will be better for us than we could ever have imagined.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” Psalm 37:23
“For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.” Psalm 91:11
“He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.”
Psalm 121:3

Why Do I Have to Be on The Leash?
Bill Brinkworth

“C’mon, girl, let’s go for a walk,” I beckoned to the tail-wagging Labrador Retriever.

After I clipped the short leash to her collar, I walked off, expecting her to follow.  Quickly, I realized there was no dog on the other end.  Buddi had tucked her head and slipped out of her collar.

“Hmmm.” I put the collar back on, with the leash still clipped on.  As I again tried to take her for a walk, she firmly sat, refusing to go. 

Her tail wagged seriously.  She apparently wanted to roam the walking path, but did not want to be hooked to the restricting tether.  Buddi wanted to run wherever she wanted to go in the woods.

Then we had the master to dog talk.  “Listen, Buddi, I see you want to go out,” her tail wagged in agreement, “but you must be on the leash.  You don’t understand what could happen out there without my protection.  Why a snake could strike you as you curiously inspect a slithering reptile that you have never seen before.  Or you could walk in some tall weeds and pick up a load of ticks.  If you go to the wrong place, you just might get sprayed by Mr. Skunk near the grapes.  Buddi, this leash is for your protection.  I can guide you safely as we walk if you would  trust me to lead you.”

Folks, and even Christians, are much like the rebellious dog.  They do not want anyone telling them what to do, especially God.  Why?  They believe his commandments will dampen their style, although most have never read about His will and way found in the Bible.  Many see God’s commandments as a leash limiting their freedom and “fun.”

What little they know about God’s requirements may have been heard from an unreliable source.  Often, they may have heard part of His Word or never stopped to consider the context of the Bible verse.  Quickly, they jump to a conclusion that is not biblical.  Even if they hear a clear biblical commandment, they still will not obey their Creator.

Most people are naturally rebellious to anyone telling them what to do.  Many give little credence to certain laws, what parents say, school rules, employer’s requirements, and anyone else that hampers their doing their own “thing.”

However, God is not like anyone else.  He created man.  He knows humanity’s limitations, what lurks unseen in their lives that will hurt them, and what will help them.  The watch care offered by our Maker is for our good.  

God’s “leash” is not meant to be burdensome.  His guiding help is from an all-seeing and knowing God who wants to keep us safe and help us.  Our aimless, often temptation-led life can lead us to harm.  He loves us more than we can imagine and wants the best for us.

Follow God’s will and way for a productive and better life.  Lose the rebellious attitude and obey the One that only desires what will help and bless you!

Lord, Why Am I in This Storm?”
Bill Brinkowrth

“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Romans 5:2-5

Every single person has struggles.  What God allows in a person’s life often is meant to help them grow closer, stronger, and more reliant on the Lord. 

The trials another is going through may not seem to be so bad to others, but God knows that it is what is needed to test their mettle.  After successfully going through their trials, they will be able to face future storms that are allowed in their life and even encourage those with similar experiences. 

I was better able to realize the importance of our going through trials and tribulations after examining a picture of a lighthouse.  That one particular lighthouse was engulfed in waves, yet it still upheld its important purpose and was where it would do the most good.

A lighthouse is a tall structure that houses a bright light for sea-going vessels to see.  In the darkest of nights or piercing through stormy weather, ships can immediately know that they are getting close to a shoreline or dangerous, submerged rocks by seeing the tower’s warning beacon.

Although most lighthouses were constructed high above any danger from a storm’s crashing waves, this one was not.  This particular lighthouse was barely above sea level, where it often was battered by ocean waves.

The picture I saw was of the La Jument Lighthouse in northwestern France.  It was constructed in a place where there were many shipwrecks.  Between 1888 and 1904, there were 31 wrecks in the lighthouse’s area.  A wealthy French man, who almost experienced death in a shipwreck, knew how vital the lighthouse would be and financed its construction.

Because of its dangerous location and tumultuous engulfing waves, the beacon was started in 1904 but was not finished until 1911.  Its foundation was hewn in solid rock and barely stood out of the water.  There are times that the 154-foot-tall tower is battered by 65 to 97-foot waves.  Many pictures have been taken of the lighthouse boldly standing with waves appearing to cover the beacon completely.

Despite its construction’s hardships, it still stands and has saved many lives and shipwrecks.  It was a savior to many because it was built where it was most needed.  If it did not experience all the violent waves it has, it would not be where it could warn and spare so many lives.

Like the La Jument lighthouse, those Christians who have faced tremendous hardships, trials, weathered their “storms,” and are still standing are an important encouragement and boost to the hope and faith of many around them.  If they had not gone through such difficult times, they may not have been the “light” that gives others hope and inspiration to withstand their storms.  Most may not know why they faced so many difficulties, but God may have used their experiences to guide others to safe harbors.

Observing eyes are often on those who proclaim to be children of God.  They are often scrutinized for their behavior through trials and difficulties.  When they react like the unsaved and scream, holler, and curse when in the pit of despair, the name of “Christian” gets one more black eye as they are a poor testimony. 

However, those who have their foundations anchored when in adversity enable them to continue to stand proud and tall after being bludgeoned by what the world recognizes as terrible experiences.  They are the “lighthouses” that shine through the gloom of affliction.  They are the ones who can give others hope that they, too, can weather their storms.

The survivors of tremendous adversity also show that a foundation based on biblical principles can help others weather through whatever they have to face.  Their perseverance and strength prove that Christ can lead the way through whatever a person faces.

The pounding “waves” in your life can either make you shake your fist at God or draw you closer to Him for His help.  How does the world see you faring through your trials? 

Is your perseverance through what God has allowed you to experience a beacon of hope and victory, or is it making it clear that you have no expectation or directing “light” to guide you through your trials?  Be a La Jument Lighthouse and show that God can give you the strength to withstand your ordeal.
“The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”  Psalm 18:2

“He who knows no hardships will know no hardihood.  He who faces no calamity will need no courage.  Mysterious though it is, the characteristics in human nature which we love best grow in a soil with a strong mixture of trouble”  
— Harry Enersib Fosdick

In This Issue:
There May Be A Time
Afflictions Have Their Purpose
The Dog of Affliction
Gaining Compassion

Volume: 922     September  4, 2023
Theme: Afflictions

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There May Be A Time…
Bill Brinkworth

Joseph, in Genesis, had many undeserved ordeals in his young life.   His brothers hated him.  They sold him into slavery, where he was later jailed.  

However, the hardships he experienced one day turned into triumphs.  He was made the second ruler under the mighty Pharaoh and was eventually able to help save Egypt and his family from a devastating famine.

At the end of his tribulations, we see how God used all those terrible acts done to Joseph.  The times of testing were times he learned more about himself and life.  He learned:

• There may be a time not to hold on to hurt emotions but to let them out and have joy.
  “Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, Cause every man to go out from me.  And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren.  2 And he wept aloud: and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard.” Gen. 45:1-2
• There may be a time to forget what was done in the past.  All the terrible things that happened to Joseph were to help preserve his and his family’s lives.
  “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.” Gen. 45:5
• There may be a time when our preferences may have to change.  We may have to move out of our comfort zone to be used by God, as did Israel and Joseph’s family.
  “Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, Thus saith thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me, tarry not: 10 And thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children’s children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast:” Gen. 45:9-10
• There is a time to forget past events and live for a different future.  Joseph forgave his brothers’ cruelty towards him and even helped them.
  “Moreover he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them: and after that his brethren talked with him.” Gen. 45:15
  
  This certainly coincides with the same principle taught in the New Testament:
  “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;” Mat 5:44
  “Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.” Luke 6:28
• There may be a time that a lifestyle changes, and one loses what they had in the past.  Possessions may be lost, but God may have something else He allows you to have:
  “Also regard not your stuff; for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours.” Gen. 45:20
• There may be a time when one has to let God provide for us differently.  Often, His new way for us is better.
  “And the children of Israel did so: and Joseph gave them wagons, according to the commandment of Pharaoh, and gave them provision for the way.  22 To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment.” Gen. 45:21-21
• There may be a time to be surprised.  Things may turn out differently than expected when God changes one’s life.
  “And they told him all the words of Joseph, which he had said unto them: and when he saw the wagons which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived: 28 And Israel said, It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive: I will go and see him before I die.” Gen. 45:27-28

Like Joseph, most of our lives did not turn out as we first envisioned them.  Our journey was not always on smooth, paved roads.  Most of us traveled over many of life’s “bumps.”  Life can often be rough.

If one played the victim, blamed others, and held a grudge, one may still be stuck in the ditch he initially fell into or was pushed into.  However, those with Joseph’s accepting and unbegrudging attitude may be able to see and experience the plan God has for their lives.  What is your attitude towards the roadblocks in your life?

“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;  4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:  5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Roman  5:2-5

Afflictions Have Their Purposes
Brooks, 1608-1680

God sometimes afflicts us for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness.  The flowers smell the sweetest after a summer shower.  Vines bear the better after their pruning.  The walnut tree is most fruitful when it is beaten and shaken.  Christians spring and thrive most when they are most externally afflicted.  Afflictions are the mothers of virtue.

Manasseh’s chain was more profitable to him than his crown.  Luther could not understand some Scriptures till he was in affliction.  The Christ-cross is no school book, yet it has taught us more than all the words in many thick books.

All the stones that came about Stephen’s ears knocked him closer to Christ.  The flood waves lifted Noah’s ark nearer to Heaven.  

When was it that Stephen saw the heavens open and Christ standing at the right hand of God, but when the stones were about his ears, and there was but a short step betwixt him and eternity?  And when did God appear in glory to Jacob, but in the day of his troubles, when the stones were his pillows, the ground his bed, the hedges his curtains, and the heavens his canopy?  Then, he saw the angels of God ascending and descending in their glittering robes.

Afflictions lift the soul for a more prosperous, clearer, and fuller enjoyment of God.  God makes afflictions to be but inlets to the soul’s more sweet and full enjoyment of His blessed self.
“Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her.”  Hosea 2:14

“The God inside you is bigger than the giant before you.” — Author Unknown

The Dog of Affliction
Cawdray, 1598-1644

If a sheep strays from the flock, the shepherd sets his dog after it.  He does that not to have the sheep devoured but to bring the animal back to safety.  

Many times, if we disobey our heavenly Shepherd, He too may set His dog of affliction on us.  It may be a “dog” of sickness, financial problems, or social situations.  Those difficulties are often meant to draw us back to safety in His arms and never to harm us.

“The greatest affliction of life is never to be afflicted.”

Gaining Compassion
Downame, 1644

Our afflictions make us more compassionate toward others who endure similar troubles.  Those who have been sick are apt to pity those whom they see pained with like diseases.

Those who have been imprisoned are more readily compassionate and accordingly help and relieve those who are restrained.  They who have been pinched with debt and hunger pity those who are poor and want food to feed and clothe them.

This was one reason God laid upon our Saviour so many afflictions, that Jesus might be able sufficiently have compassion on them that are encompassed with infirmity.
“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” II Cor. 1:4

“The tears of sorrow are like spiritual lenses, showing us the world in its true character as a poor, empty, unsatisfying inheritance.”  — Macmillan

In This Issue:
Think on These Things
Trials Can Save Us
Our Burden Carrier
It’s Better If It’s Broken
Too Little?

Volume: 866     July 12, 2022
Theme:  Trials

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Think on These Things
Bill Brinkworth

Sometimes, life can be plain rough, even for Christians.  We may face financial hardships, physical problems, relationship challenges, and hosts of other types of trials.  What do you do?  Where do you run?  How do you escape the load of a burden you sometimes cannot imagine yourselves bearing?

We are told in the Bible that, as heavy as one’s burdens feel, God will never allow more than one can bear: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” I Corinthians 10:13  Whatever we face, God will only allow us to go through what we can handle with His help.  Somehow, we will be able to deal with the immense trials faced.

With the faith that God will help us, the next avenue of relief from trials and tribulations is prayer: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” Philippians 4:6.  Be thankful for what you have and ask God to help you, and hang on by faith that He will!

After knowing that God will somehow help us through our hard times and we seek His aid in the time of need, one more area must be handled so we do not feel defeated and want to give up.  That area is our thought life.

If we have any “strength or moral goodness” (virtues), allow your mind to have only the right thoughts: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8

Do not allow yourself to think about what could happen, things that are not true, things that are not right, things that are filthy and unrighteous, things that are scary and frightening, or bad news.  Doing so will never help; it will always make matters worse.

Christian, you have the mind of Christ.  Do not fill it with worldly thoughts because the dark things of this world will only try to put out your “light.”  Keep your eyes and mind on the things of God, and let God do the worrying!   He’s going to be up all night anyway!

O soul, are you weary and troubled?  No light in the darkness you see?  There’s light for a look at the Saviour, And life more abundant and free!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace.
— Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus, by Helen Lemmel

Trials Can Save Us
Author Unknown

Two painters were employed to fresco the walls of a cathedral.  Both stood on scaffolding, constructed so they could paint the high walls some forty feet from the floor.

One man was so intent upon the work that he became wholly absorbed.  He stood back from his picture to examine his piece, gazing at it with intense concentration.  Forgetting where he was, he moved back slowly, surveying the work of his pencil critically until he neared the edge of the plank on which he stood.

At that critical moment, his companion turned suddenly paralyzed with horror and beheld the man’s imminent peril.  In another instant, the fellow artist could fall to his death on the pavement below.  It may have startled the man if he spoke to him, and he may have fallen.  The man’s death was equally sure if he did not say anything.  Suddenly, he had a plan.  He seized a wet brush and flung it against the endangered man’s art, spattering it with unsightly blotches of color.

The painter lurched forward and turned upon his friend with fierce upbraidings.  His life-saving friend quickly explained why he had ruined the other man’s art.  The rescued man looked down where he could have fallen and thanked the man who saved his life with tears of gratitude.

Sometimes we get absorbed with the “pictures” of this world.  In contemplating them, we often step backward, unconscious of our peril.  It is then the Almighty sometimes damages what we are admiring, only to save us from imminent danger.

Our Burden Carrier
D. L. Moody

A minister was moving his library upstairs.  As the minister was going upstairs with his load of books, his little boy came in and was very eager to help his father.  His father told him to get an armful and take them upstairs.

When the father returned, he met the little fellow about halfway up the stairs, tugging away with the biggest book in the library.  He couldn’t carry it up.  The book was too big, so he sat down and cried.

His father found him, took him in his arms, book and all, and carried him upstairs.  So Christ will convey you and all your burdens.  I like to think of Christ as our burden bearer.

“It has been well said that no man ever sank under the burden of the day. It is when tomorrow’s burden is added to the burden of today that the weight is more than a man can bear.” — George MacDonald

It’s Better If It Is Broken
Dr. J. Hamilton, 1871

• It is the broken ground that opens its bosom for the reception of seed, which springs up and brings forth fruit abundantly.
• It is the broken cloud that discharges its showers that usher in the spring and cheer the thirsty ground.
• It is the broken corn that is separated from the chaff and laid up in the garner of the husbandman that saved lives from starvation.
• It is the broken berries that the olive press’s millstones have crushed and give forth a precious oil that fills lamps that bring light to darkness.
• It was the broken alabaster box from which the poor penitent woman anointed the feet of the Saviour and its contents that filled the whole house with the odor of the precious spikenard perfume.
• It was Christ’s broken body that was nailed to the cross and the spear of an enemy that furnishes the blood that cleanses all souls from their sin.
• It is the broken veil of the temple that opened to us the Holiest of all and gave the believing soul the opportunity to go directly to the Lord in prayer.
• It was the broken grave that announced the reality of the resurrection and proclaimed to the unbelieving disciple that the Saviour was risen indeed.

So it is with Christians.  It is by breaking and the crushing processes to which they are subjected, by the providence of God, that they become the spiritual salt of the Earth and the lights of this world.

“He who knows no hardships will know no hardihood.  He who faces no calamity will need no courage.  Mysterious though it is, the characteristics in human nature which we love best grow in a soil with a strong mixture of trouble.” — Harry Emerson Fosdick

Too Little?
D. L. Moody

One day in Brooklyn, I saw a young man going along the street without any arms.  A friend with me pointed him out and told me his story.  When the war broke out, he felt it was his duty to enlist and go to the front.

He was engaged to be married, and while in the army, letters frequently passed between him and his intended wife.  After the Battle of the Wilderness, the young lady looked anxiously for the accustomed letter.  For a little while, no letter was received.

At last, one came in a strange hand.  She opened it with trembling fingers and read these words, “We have fought a terrible battle.  I have been wounded so awfully that I shall never be able to support you.  A friend writes this for me.  I love you more tenderly than ever, but I release you from your promise.  I will not ask you to join your life with the maimed life of mine.”

That letter was never answered.  The next train that left, the young lady was on it.  She went to the hospital.  She found out the number of his cot, and she went down the aisle between the long rows of the wounded men.  At last, she saw the number, and hurrying to his side, she threw her arms around his neck and said, “I’ll not desert you.  I’ll take care of you.” He did not resist her love.  They were married, and there was no happier couple than that one.

We depend on one another.  Christ says, “I’ll take care of you.  I’ll take you to this bosom of mine, as maimed as you are.”  Surely, you can be saved if you accept the Saviour’s love.  God loves us, my friends.  He loves us unto the end.  
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

“As the rainbow would never be seen were it not for the clouds and the rain, the beauties of holiness would never shine so brightly were it not for the trials which the Spirit of God employs to promote them.”  — Dr. Tweedie