Do you ever wonder if you’re being punished? Is the season you’re in so difficult you think God might be punishing you?
As Terrie and I were talking last week, we spoke of the ninth chapter in John, where Jesus heals a man born blind.
The scripture says, “His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents that he was born blind?'”
“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.”
Huge sigh. Literally.
Discussion: If you’re walking a difficult season of life right now and simply can. not. figure out why … could you rest in the fact that God may be using you to encourage others?
that really clicked for me two summers ago. and it makes such a difference in the way i view a situation! especially when i think of my ann :) she shows me His glory thru this awful disease.
Amazing how this speaks to me right where I am at now. I have had some battles over the years (as we all have) and so often find myself asking God to help me to understand and be patient, but lately I have asked God to not let my circumstances go in vain. I am learning (daily) how to push myself outside of my desires, my dreams, my wants, my way . . . and ask God to use me right where I am at. Not every day is perfect but I am trying to make myself available to Him to use me. I have found amazing JOY in being available and being a blessing to others.
oh, Tracie, Your story is not finished yet!! Hang on, the best is yet to come…..
“..all the days ordained for you were written in HIS book before one of them came to be” Psalm 139:16
Lingering in the wait is a fierce battle of what if’s and suffering, for sure. Why would we enter into suffering with a lifted heart?
… “because we know that suffering produces perseverence; perseverence, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into your heart by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Romans 5:3
praying for you!
Carolyn
Your words ALWAYS inspire me to think of things differently. I love that you are able to help me see clearly & help me put things in perspective. Love you!
Tracie, I read this post through my reader today and it really spoke to me. I’ve been going through this exact thing…having these same exact feelings that you are describing. I’ve been dealing with situations one after the other, and there seems to be no end in sight. I admit, unfortunately, that I sometimes do feel as if I’m being punished. I know that I’m wrong for thinking it but I just feel so worn down by it all. {sigh} Thank you for sharing these words of encouragement.
Catching up on your blog and just found this post…and it was just what I needed. When I get down in the dumps about my singleness, this is where Satan attacks me…