Friday, September 7, 2018

Pray for Families (Hope in Suffering)

Greetings Prayer Warriors,

You may have to suffer through various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6-7

One can hardly turn on the news without hearing of the horrific effects of natural disasters, church scandals, sexual abuse, untimely deaths, and all kinds of things that seek to deflate our hope and trust in God. Perhaps you have been the victim of some of these things. It can be hard to understand why God allows bad things to happen.

I find the lyrics to a song that seeks to find the meaning in the Lord’s greater plans, keep reverberating in my head, so let me share them with you.

What if Your blessings come through raindrops?
What if Your healing comes through tears?
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near?
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?*


Then I remembered the mercies of the LORD, his acts of kindness through ages past; For he saves those who take refuge in him, and rescues them from every evil. Sirach 51:8

He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, [for] the old order has passed away.” 
Revelation 21:4

Lord, be our strength as we share in one another’s sufferings. May we never fear suffering, for you walk with us. When we are too weak, you carry us.  When our tears are spent, you console us. When we are in pain, you comfort us. You restore us each day with your grace. You are an awesome God! Let us be a reflection of your kindness and compassion, so that the hope that never disappoints may be forever renewed in this world! Amen.

Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet

Hope is restored through kindness and compassion. Pass it on!

* “Blessings” by Laura Story