I used to pencil in a small "T.P." by verses in the Bible that I had tried and proven. This is one of those "T.P." verses. God has used and is using trials in my life to bring about the results listed at the end of the verse. I don't claim to have perfected these things by any means and perhaps that is why God continues to take me through the refining fire.
The word perfect means mature. Looking back at my life, I can see where the trials I've been through have had the effect of helping me to mature spiritually. I have a long ways to go, but I do see where this is one of the purposes of suffering.
"Stablish you" means to set fast or firm. Trials have made me dig into the Word of God and send my roots down deep to take firm hold of the Rock. What a blessing this has been in my life!
"Strengthen you" means to make you strong. I can say that my trials have made me stronger in my faith and trust in God.
"Settle you" means getting you to the place where you come to rest in Him. This one has been a little more difficult, but with each trial that comes my way, I am finding that it is getting easier to let go of my worries and simply trust and rest in His plan and purpose for the trial.
The pain of trials is not fun, but when we bow in humble submission to our loving Heavenly Father, He will bring us forth from the furnace as gold in His hands. Do you see yourself making progress through your trials in these areas? Don't give up! God will finish what He has started in you.
2 comments:
Hi, Just came across your blog and read your devotional about suffering saints. It is so true that the Lord permits us to go thru things to stablish, strength and settle us. Have found it so true in my life. I'm so glad that He never sends a test or trial without giving us the grace to be overcomers. Thanks for the reminderthat HE will bring us forth as gold. God bless, Aliene
You are so welcome!
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