In the Midst of Suffering

God lives and works today. Perhaps in looking back you could testify to his reality when you think about especially happy times in your life. But what about the times of affliction, when the waves of trouble rise up and almost seem to drown you? If you are going through such a time right now, listen to today's meditation by Basilia Schlink, In the Midst of Suffering.

What do we have to thank for the most? Surely for the most precious gift that a person can receive, for that which contains the greatest blessing imaginable. But what is this treasure? It is suffering, although at first it may seem to be anything but precious and valuable. Even of our Lord Jesus we hear that it was suffering which brought him glory, and that's why the Apostle Paul writes in Romans chapter 5, therefore we rejoice in our sufferings.

God is calling each one of us to rejoice in this way, for in such praise lies great power. It helps us to master our afflictions, and our hearts will become quiet when we say, I praise the blessing that comes from ways of suffering and darkest night. Or if we sing it.

When we praise the blessing that suffering will bring, all its negative power will be broken. It will no longer be able to make us so sad or despondent. Yes, this praising and giving thanks in the midst of suffering is not just an unrealistic attempt to escape from one's sufferings.

When we give thanks about the glory that suffering will bring, yes, when we praise God for the blessing that is hidden in suffering, then we are speaking the truth. For when we say, yes, Father, to all our suffering and chastenings, they will help to transform us into the image of God. And so suffering is the greatest present from the hand of God.

It brings the greatest blessing, a life of unspeakable happiness in the world to come. And through giving thanks and praising the Lord, we can taste this bliss already here on earth, right in the midst of suffering. I'll suffer gladly if that prepares me for endless glorious life above.

In earthly sorrow, the Lord I'll follow, O once for me that hath betrayed. To die is living, Jesus is giving, His people everlasting life. So praise the suffering, sinners transforming, For everlasting life with Christ.

This program by Basilia Schlenk has come to you from the little land of Canaan. If you would like a free leaflet by the same author, please write to God Lives and Works Today, 9849 North 40th Street, Phoenix, Arizona, 85028-4099. That's God Lives and Works Today, 9849 North 40th Street, Phoenix, Arizona, 85028-4099.

God bless you.