When Chris and I were in the lovey dovey dating stage of our relationship I thought he was just the greatest thing. He was cute, funny and such a gentleman. He charmed his way into my heart and after just five months we became engaged. It was bliss. As life would have it, the bliss was short-lived when shortly after our engagement Chris received some bad news which took us through our first trial as a couple.
At first I wasn't sure at all that our young relationship could handle the weight of this heavy news. However, watching Chris handle it with maturity and a dependence on God allowed me to see him in a whole new way. I thought Chris was a great guy before the trial but now, wow, I knew he was an amazing man with whom I could build a strong marriage.
Job had a similar experience in that he went through a terrible trial. He had always honored and obeyed God. Their relationship was good but watch what Job says about God after the storm, "My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you." (Job 42:5) LOVE IT!! Job hadn't experienced God fully until the trials came. There were parts of God Job could only experience through suffering. Though his circumstances were unimaginable, Job continued to believe God. His belief ultimately allowed him to see more of God.
When we are in the midst of trials God reveals Himself to us in ways we never knew before. The only way to experience God's comfort is during times of sorrow. The best way to appreciate His peace is in times of tribulation. The darkness of our suffering can accentuate the glory and majesty of God.
Have you merely heard about God or have you seen Him? When is the last time God revealed Himself to you in an intimate way? Suffering is never wasted when we believe God for the outcome. Next time you face a trial, follow Job's example and see what God will do.
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