Biblical Examples of Pain

 

Throughout Scripture, God’s people faced pain:

As a Husband, Father of six, Ministry Leader, and Christ follower, I have seen my share of pain. This outline helps us see the big picture: that pain is part of life and part of our journey of faith. Pain will come, and we can count it as joy. It makes us strong and builds character. Our joy is knowing that Christ is where we get our peace in any situation. Sometimes we must be like Paul and simply back up, realize that Satan has blocked the road we planned to travel, and find a new path to the destination God has called us to. (1 Thes 2:18) Pray and seek a new path to what God has called you to today.

Here are some thoughts on this from Herbert Walker Jr. 

• Noah: ridicule
• Abraham and Sarah: barrenness
• Joseph: betrayal and prison
• Moses: leadership pressure
• Elijah: depression
• Peter: failure
• Paul: suffering

Pain has always been part of God’s people’s journey.

Even today, Christian leaders face:

• Betrayal
• Misunderstanding
• Financial pressure
• Division
• Family struggles
• Spiritual warfare

Pain is part of the calling in your life.

Pain and Joy Can Coexist

James says we can have pain and joy at the same time!

 

But Joy does not come from:

• Money
• Accomplishments 

• People’s approval

Joy comes from Jesus.

 

“Happiness" depends on circumstances...

But Joy depends on Christ.

When your plans seem “Hindered”

​1Thessalonians 2:18 “We wanted very much to come to you, and I, Paul, tried again and again, but Satan hindered us.”

The word hindered means a road that is impassable. It also was used in the Greek to describe a runner in a race that elbowed the lead runner with aggression and knocked them out of the race. 

Paul had to turn around and strategize a new way to get to the Thessalonians because of the aggression and obstacles of Satan pushing him back and the people used by Satan (like the runner).

I also have seen this. But I keep praying and simply look for another path to get to where God wants me to go. Like Paul, I recognize the pushback as Satan and pray and look for another path. There is more than one path. In Jesus name! 

Your Spiritual Time each Day is the Priority

​Great reminder to keep your spiritual growth the number 1 priority in your life. It helps you stay fresh and full of the spirit and it helps encourage those that look to you for leadership.

Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.  (1 Timothy 4:16, NLT)

A Message for Everyone!

​The amazing part or the Christmas message to me is that God revealed the birth of Jesus to both the poor shepards and the rich wise men. His message is for everyone.

How Foster Care Changed a County | Dr. Bob and Wendy Griffith

Rejoice in the Lord in the Good and Bad days

Rejoice in your triumphs, and leave your sorrows behind. You are not alone. Everyone has good days and bad days, but overall you are making progress where it counts. Refuse to lose hope and give up. Strive to do the best you can with what you have, and leave the rest to Me, says the Lord. Romans 12:10-12 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

A great review of my book Fostering Jesus

http://23259440.hs-sites.com/church-on-a-mission?ecid=&_hsmi=2

here is a nice review that was done of my story and my book.