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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Blessed (10/11/12)
Pain strips me bare of strength,
emptying me of every form of self-sufficiency;
silent tears stream from a heart that sings
through Suffering's clasp around my neck
ever tightening.
Days of rain are commonplace companions,
darkening my skies though my heart is fully alive
beneath the blanket of love that leaves me secure knowing-
He's so kind to put me in the fire.
Questions unanswered are of no concern;
sheer faith in His name is the shield I lift
as clouds of weariness seek to blot out His goodness
that I can't help but to testify
is certain.
Left crippled in bed unable to rise,
drowned by the darkness of little sunlight,
crushed by the weight of infirmities reign
that's been allowed to rule for this moment-
to Him I submit.
My sovereign High Priest made a way for me,
though He leaves me in turmoil bound to sin's curse
that's been pardoned by the blood of the risen High One
who's appointed these days of refining-
I give thanks.
The purpose is seen and far understood,
the reasoning valid I can't argue with Him;
His perfect leadership promises good and not harm,
in this promise I trust-
it is valid.
He's the author of days and the giver of nights,
determining the weather that will greet me each morning;
if He chose for this day to be filled with rain,
then I praise Him-
what a beautiful day.
If suffering is said to be the journey to love,
for Jesus Himself loved and knew suffering best,
then perhaps such a trial is a kiss of His love
that's granting me my one desire-
to love as He does.
If this is the case then I am far the most blessed!
I am honored and favored to be granted this grace
that removes all pride and worldly desire,
producing confident faith
in His goodness.
Such kind grace molds me into the image of love,
guiding me tenderly into the knowledge of God,
enabling longsuffering to work in my life-
how blessed amongst men am I!
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This article has been read 704 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Colin Swann
10/19/12
The end result of God's trials in our lives bring glory to Him - you have portrayed that well in your story. Thanks!

Colin (Gold Member)
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
10/20/12
This is a powerful piece. Not everyone will be able to relate to it on a level as deep as those who suffer chronic illness and their caregivers. It touched me deeply as I've been struggling against shingles-like sores for almost a quarter of a decade with gaping sores from the lining of my brain to between my toes. I totally get the words you wrote, This illness has robbed much from me but has blessed me ten times over. My kids are acutely aware of pain and suffering and all have chosen careers to serve God and others. Suffering can be kind especially if you hand it over to God. Nicely done.
Charla Diehl
10/22/12
I think your title for this piece zeroes in on what the sufferings in our lives can render. This tugged at my heart for all those with chronic pain. Lots to pause and think about in this fine piece.

Tiny red ink: Spaces between the verses allow the reader to ponder each collective thought, and also gives the eyes a rest as well.
lynn gipson 
10/23/12
I can hear and relate to this piece VERY well...suffering can be kind knowing He is with us, comforting, healing. Thank you so much for this wonderful piece.

"Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted:

My favorite

God Bless
C D Swanson 
10/25/12
Beautifully written, and intensely powerful. This touched me on many different levels...having faced chronic illness with family members, myself, and my job as a Director in Nursing Homes, I full well related to this piece.

Thank you.

And, God Bless you~