June 11                                                                         The Power of God’s Word
That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever.
–2 Corinthians 4:16-17(NLT)
TROUBLES PRODUCE GLORY
A poem and essay by ILMA
Does trouble bring you down?
Do you constantly feel consumed and bound?
When we are beset by tribulations
We need to focus on God’s love and salvation.
Though our bodies are dying
God is constantly renewing
Troubles may seem disheartening
Yet it produces for us a glory that is astounding.
I grew up surrounded by people who constantly complained. It was a common thing to hear criticisms and demands from members of my family. It seems like there is never enough one can do to satisfy the expectations of someone. The worst thing is that these expectations were all unspoken and hidden. Thus, trouble and conflicts thrived greatly in our household. Yet, something inside me told me to never give up. I didn’t realize then that it was God’s spirit who walked me through my life’s troubles.
The bible tells us that we must never give up when we encounter troubles. It is so small in comparison to the glory that is awaiting us when we die for Christ.
PRAYER
Lord, let me see trouble as a stepping stone to glory.
REFLECTION
How can troubles strengthen us?