We share in His sufferings...that we may also share in His glory. Romans 8:17 NIV Gods number-one goal for you isnt comfort, its Christ-like-ness! And to reach it youll have to undergo some of the same experiences that Jesus went through - like being misunderstood by your family, ridiculed by church members, rejected by the world, and disappointed by the people who say they love you. The Bible says weve been called to share in His sufferings...that we may also share in His glory. So how do we do this? In three ways: (1) Stay focused on Gods plan, not your pain. Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2 NLT). Corrie ten Boom said, If you look within, youll feel depressed, if you look without, youll be distressed, but if you look to Christ, youll be at rest. (2) Dont give in to short-term thinking. Look at Jesus, Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross (Hebrews 12:2 NLT). Keep your eye on the finish line. You dont get the trophy until the race is over, so make up your mind to stay the course and finish strong. (3) Start praying the right way. When you understand that Gods objective is to make you more like Christ, youll start praying fewer comfort me prayers and more conform me ones. Instead of asking, Why me, Lord? youll ask, What do You want me to learn, Lord? James writes, Let the process go on until...you have become men [and women] of mature character (James 1:4 PHPS). Thats how you become more Christ-like.
Posted on: Sun, 30 Nov 2014 22:38:43 +0000
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