Jesus encouraged us to have joy in tribulation, because
He already experienced every issue we will ever face. He lives within us, so He
inspires us to change our focus about life (John 16:33; Hebrews 2:18, 4:15).
Paul and James experienced more trials in their lifetime
than we ever will, and they gave us the same advice to rejoice in our
tribulation (Romans 5:3, 12:12; James 1:2). In fact, Paul also told us to
rejoice always (Philippians 4:4).
The secret of learning to be content is to realize that
this earth is not our home (Philippians 4:12). With an eternal perspective, we
realize who we are in Christ and we stop worrying about earthly pursuits and
dreams.
An eternal perspective allows us to have joy in adverse
circumstances (2 Corinthians 4:16-17), because issues on this earth have less
significance to us than those pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
We trust in the Lord with our whole heart, holding
nothing back, not trusting in our self or any fleshly advantage, submitting
everything to God and embracing His will as our own (Proverbs 3:5-6).
If we wait patiently for the Lord, we shall not be moved,
even in times of great stress or persecution. Christ is our solid rock on which
we stand, our strong tower from the enemies, which come against us (Psalm
40:1-2, 61:3).
When someone offends or harasses one of God's children,
He takes it personally just as if the person was afflicting Him with our pain
(Acts 9:5-6). He is our refuge and strength in any sign of trouble (Psalm
46:1).
We quietly rest in His care, knowing that He always
delivers us through all of our afflictions (Psalm 23:4, 34:19). Even when He
disciplines us for our sinful behavior, we can rejoice that He loves us as His
children (Hebrews 12:3-6).
Prayer:
Father God, thank You for teaching us to have an eternal
perspective on life. We want to learn to be content as Paul did and to walk in
Your nurture and admonition (Ephesians 6:4). Keep us ever faithful to Your
Kingdom's work and remind us that if we fail to witness to the ones You put in
our path, their blood is on our hands (Ezekiel 3:19-20).
Help us to see that all we actually need to be content is
food and shelter (1 Timothy 6:8). Teach us that the pursuit of this world's
goods never satisfies; yet, when Godliness is accompanied by contentment, we
reap many rewards (Ecclesiastes 5:10; 1 Timothy 6:6).
Thought for the Day:
When we are joyful and content, our attitude shows on our
face; but when we focus on our tribulation, the weight of it will break our
spirit. - Proverbs 15:13
