40 Days in the Word - Power of the Word Sample

Theme | I Will Bring Good Out Of Suffering

From | Deb Lenzo

Verses | 2 Corinthians 4:17, James 1:2-3, Galatians 6:9

Life comes with challenges.

Jesus says in John 16:33 “In the world you will have tribulation… “ though the conversation doesn’t end there. He continues, “But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Today's scriptures promise that good can come out of our suffering, trials can produce treasure. How is that even possible??

Have you ever taken on a really tough physical challenge? Like mountain climbing or a marathon perhaps? We understand the value of skilled support when facing a significant physical challenge. We also recognise the joy (and relief) when we finish, even if the journey wasn’t one we revelled in. That sense of accomplishment can breed confidence in us for future endeavours. This helps us begin to appreciate how God is at work in us, amidst suffering.

Negotiating difficulty and suffering has been part of my life experience. It wasn’t fun, but I discovered that the Lord is the only genuinely unwavering source of comfort, guidance and encouragement I can rely on. When all else fails, He still stands. He has helped me to see His inexhaustible capacity, but also the capacity I have in Him. He who has overcome equips me to be an overcomer. I don’t need to live as a victim of circumstance. Rather, God helps me find the place of victory despite my circumstances! As I have chosen to become more teachable and malleable in His hands, my character has been reshaped, my priorities realigned, and my focus sharpened. The enemy may have desired suffering to break me. Instead, it has fostered growth in who I am and deepened my faith. What an unanticipated treasure!

I can’t say I rejoice when new challenges come my way, but I have an ever-deepening confidence that I will find a place of confidence in God in the midst of them. I am a better person and enjoy a stronger relationship with the Lord because of the suffering I have experienced. If your journey is tough right now, don’t give up! Draw close to Him and find what you need. We stand with you in prayer for a positive resolution to your circumstances, but along the way, you can trust that God will help you find true treasure amidst the trial.

Prayer | Lord, I am so glad you know exactly what I am going through right now. I pray in the midst of my difficulties, I choose to trust in You, to listen for Your guidance and receive Your love and comfort. I believe as we walk through this together You have treasures for me to discover even during my trial. Thank You that Your love for me is stronger than any challenge I might face. Amen.