Encouragement

Finding Peace and Beauty in Pain

by Michael Edwards 
11/09/19
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Can you imagine roots of faith so deep that we walk in total peace in the worst of circumstances? Never afraid, worried, or anxious as we look trouble right in the eye and persevere in the faith. That is where I want to walk, and the only path appears to be a direct path through troubled times. The greater the pain, the deeper the roots of faith will grow. The key to our victory in the midst of the trial, appears to be how we choose to view the turmoil that has come upon us. 

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4 BSB

While I do not believe that our suffering and pain is what God brings or desires, He can and will use all things for our good, especially if we cooperate. The cooperation He is looking for is found in our perseverance in the faith no matter what may come.

And we know that God works together all things for good to those loving God, to those being called according to His purpose, Rom 8:28 BSB

As I see it, when trouble comes, our options are to focus on the problem and waste this time languishing in defeat and self-pity that can destroy our faith and life. Or, refuse to waste this time, fix our eyes on Jesus and fully trust the author and finisher to perfect our faith (Heb 12:2). Troubled times are a perfect time, and realistically the only time for us to grow the deepest roots that lead to an overcoming faith. I believe our greatest benefit during these times will only come when we choose to change our perspective, recognizing and welcoming the growth in the process. This change in focus from the negative aspect of the trial to the positive, is precisely how the Apostles rejoiced in their trials. They rejoiced in the growth their faith would experience going through the storm, not in the actual pain and suffering.

Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us. Rom 5: 3-5 BSB

Recently I made the decision to no longer waste my current time of great trial. While it is not always easy, I consciously remind myself this is a time for perseverance in the faith, time to grow into a deeper and more abiding faith. While nothing has changed in my situation, the shift in perspective has made a tremendous difference. My change in focus has opened the door for God and hope to enter the fire, allowing me to glimpse the beauty in the pain. Accepting my circumstances has allowed His presence and peace to enter. He will never leave or forsake me, walking by my side as perseverance finishes its work, maturing and completing me, so I lack nothing.   

Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:4 BSB

Choosing to keep our eyes on Jesus and the reality that our faith can only grow when tested, is something that we must consciously do every day. When I do, the hope continues and the beauty is tangible. I can literally see how God can use even what I do not like for my good. I believe there is excitement to be found for even the most discouraged soul when we recognize how our trials are benefiting us. Our perseverance in the faith during these times is growing deeper roots that will weather any storm. Oh, the power, and peace, that thought brings. Hope is now before me leading me to walk in His power, peace and protection during the storm. We can live and breathe His peace, no matter what may come. Like Paul, it is possible to be content in all circumstances.

I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. Phil 4:11 BSB

Many more New Covenant Bible Studies HERE. Jesus poured out His blood for the New Covenant of grace and truth, replacing the Old Covenant law of Moses. Believers are exclusively under the New Covenant, the last will and testament of Jesus that began after the cross. 

And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, "This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood. Luke 22:20