Bible Discussion Thread

Verse 2, It�s important for us to acknowledge that hardships, trials, tribulations and troubles are a necessary part of life. John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." In the world we will have tribulations and troubles -- sicknesses, family tragedies, out of work, financial difficulties, family problems, earthquakes, floods etc., business failure etc. It is a given, but Jesus says, "be of good cheer". He is saying that we must learn how to find joy in the midst of life's hardships, because He has overcome the world. James tells us to count all of this joy. James 1:2-4, My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. How many of us really take this verse seriously? The truth is, if we really desire the liberating power of God's Spirit and kingdom in our lives, we must find joy in life's hardships. Two reasons why we need to learn how to enjoy life's hardships. 1. The Storms of Life Help To Keep Us On Track With God. Psalms 119:67, Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word. There's a story of a woman who became the victim of amnesia. For three months she wandered, but during a severe thunderstorm she suddenly remembered who she was and where she was from. How often the storms of life bring us back to our senses! God sends them not to destroy us but to help us. Many people can look back and thank God for the storms that brought them back to Him! 2. Struggles And Hardships Sift Out The Impurities In Our Lives. Hebrews 12:27-28, Now this, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. A Christian man lost his home and mill when a flood washed them away. He was brokenhearted and discouraged as he stood surveying his loss. Just then he saw a glittering object that had been uncovered by the waters. It was gold! The disaster he thought had made him a beggar had actually made him wealthy. So, the Lord often works through our troubles to strip away certain cherished possessions to show us the better treasures of His love and power. How thankful we should be that in every storm of affliction we have the assurance that the Lord has a good purpose in view! The more joy we are able to find in the midst of life's hardships the stronger and more secure we will be as individuals, who are now able to walk in victory and succeeding in the issues of life. Nehemiah 8:10 �...for this day is holy to our LORD. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.� It all boils down to the fact that hardships are a part of life and there is no way we can escape them in our lives. They serve a meaningful purpose.