Four key truths I learned over the years taught me how to face trials with Calm Assurance and Hope. It took years to embed these truths in my heart and then to apply these truths. A lifetime of facing trials ultimately lead me to trust God in everything. Because of trials, I learned that my life is centered in Christ. Therefore, trials are merely stepping stones to Glory. Trials are not my final destiny. My life and destiny are centered in Jesus Christ who sits upon His throne in Heaven. Nothing on this earth can compare to the joy I have knowing Him as my Savior, my High Priest and my Friend.
A TEST OF FAITH
When I went to work on Tuesday, I knew it was only a matter of time until I would have to go to ER. The severe abdominal pain was a sign that something was wrong. For many years, some degree of abdominal pain was a way of life for me. Over the past few months I had noted an increase in frequency and intensity of pain. I had wondered if cancer had invaded my chronically ill pancreas or whether scar tissue was entrapping the bowel. Either way, for me I knew nothing would change the course until it declares itself fully. So, it was as I headed to work, my mind quickly thought of the possible diagnosis. Then I went back to thinking of all the things I needed to do at work.
The schedule for the Doctor I was assisting was packed full of patients and procedures. Despite my determination to help, I realized by 10:30 I had to leave. I apologized and told the doctor I was working with I would have to leave for ER He graciously told me to go. By the time I crossed the street to the ER; I asked for a pan, profusely vomiting with all loss of bladder control. I waited there alone patiently for them to take me back. The doctors came and I gave them my history. CAT Scan done. Well it was an obstruction with a part of my small bowel twisted on itself which meant I would need emergency surgery.
NO GUILT IN LIFE, NO FEAR IN DEATH
Amazingly, I had no fear or worry. I felt calm. More than that, I had hope; despite the pain. Certainly, this was not what I had planned for the day or for the week; but, I trusted God’s plan anyway. Perhaps, my medical knowledge played a part in my calm. After all, I had been through this same scenario before. Yet, I believe my calm came from a much higher source. My calm came from knowing God IS Omnipotent and that all He does is for my good. My life is hidden in Jesus Christ, so the things of this world are less important anymore. Because of that, I don’t worry about the ebbs and tides of this world. Of course, the previous trials had taught me how much I could trust Him in every situation!
Colossians 3:1-4 (NKJV)
If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.
4 TRUTHS THAT STEADY YOUR HEART IN PAINFUL TRIALS
- God Is the omnipotent, all powerful, omniscient ruler of the Universe and my life.
- God Loves Me and all that He plans is for my good.
- My life is hidden in Christ. When I accepted Christ as my Savior, I was given a new eternal life in Him. This journey on earth is a pilgrimage that is preparing me to experience eternal ecstasy with Him. The joy that will be mine in glory with Him will be more than I could ever dream of. Therefore, I can walk through many trials calmly; because I know this is only temporary.
- Just keep walking. The day after surgery I could have laid in bed succumbed by the pain. Yet, to get well; I knew I had to walk and do breathing exercises to expand my lungs. I had to just put one foot in front of the other. That is true of every trial we face on earth. Even when the steps are slow and faltering, march forward. We keep on putting one foot in front of the other; while trusting God for strength.
CONCLUDING TWEETS:
[tweetthis]In Christ, our trials can be joyfully seen as stepping stones to Glory[/tweetthis]
[bctt tweet=”Things of this world become inconsequential compared to the Glories I have in Jesus Christ” username=”effiedarlene”]
[tweetthis]My Hope, my destiny, and my life are founded in Christ Jesus my firm foundation[/tweetthis]
Photo by permission: https://unsplash.com/@vision Scripture inscription I added.
New King James Version (NKJV)
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.