Finding God's Truth In The Storms Of LifeSample

Lessons Learned

In his book, Walking with God through Pain and Suffering, Tim Keller says, "You don't really know Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have." 

At World Help , we have seen this truth evidenced so many times while ministering to people all around the globe. When the administrators of a children's home in Nepal saw their ministry reduced to rubble by an earthquake, they did the only thing they could do--they turned to Jesus. When a widow in Rwanda struggled to put food on the table for her children, her first instinct was to pray. We've heard story after story of people who were driven into the arms of God by trials.

Suffering shows us the importance of our faith. It puts us in a place where we can't rely on ourselves. In 2 Corinthians 4, we are reminded that when the things we normally rely on fail us, our spirits get stronger. We become closer to the source of true strength, and we learn to fix our eyes on Him.

It's important, then, that when we go through trials and sufferings, we hold on to the lessons we learn.

The only way we can waste our pain is by forgetting it and leaving behind the precious insights we gained by enduring it.

If you need to, create a physical monument in your life to the faithfulness of God during your trials. Many statues, books, and songs have been created for this purpose. But your monument doesn't have to be visually impressive. The Israelites used stacks of rocks to remember God's provisions and to remind their children. Whatever will remind you is perfect.

Be assured that Jesus is all we need. When the world around us seems chaotic and untrustworthy, we have a steadfast hope. Let's rejoice in that today!

Prayer: Dear God, I know that my sufferings draw me closer to You. Help me to learn and grow in my faith when I face trials in this life. And help me to remember those lessons even when my circumstances improve. Thank you for Your patience with me as You continue to make me the person You want me to be. Amen.