09-04-2011, 08:09 PM
(09-04-2011 06:34 PM)heb13-13 Wrote: [ -> ]Hi Vic,
And we are such lousy judges of what is or is not a "valid" trial for someone.
Most will look at others and their situations and view things only on an outward basis without understanding the degree of inward trauma or stress or heartache that is taking place in someone's life.
Kindness and compassion are always the order of the day for people that are suffering, whether we think it is a valid trial or not.
His blessings to you,
Rick
Hi Rick,
I was just thinking about how even the worst trial ever in someone's life can appear as a piece of cake, if the person is totally and completely resting in Christ. And the next person can be totally overwhelmed because of having taken their eyes off Christ, like Peter sinking in the waves of the storm, although he trusted at first, and yet their/our trial in all appearances should be a breeze to go through trusting Christ. We just never know what others are going through, or they us, or where they/we are spiritually at that moment in time or during that trial. They/we can be walking in faith one moment and the next decimated for a time. It's all about growth and learning to fully walk with and depend upon Christ in all moments. It really is about being sensitive to the Spirit about how we can encourage and uphold that person in prayer through that trial and even day to day living. I guess that's why we are called to encourage, pray for and edify others, always.
Eph 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Eph 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
Eph 4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
1Th 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
A friend reminded me of that Scripture about the storm today and it really fits how we often handle trials and tests of our faith, and how Christ always is there, regardless if we falter or not.
Mat 14:24 But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
Mat 14:25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
Mat 14:26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
Mat 14:27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
Mat 14:28 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
Mat 14:29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
Mat 14:30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
Mat 14:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
Mat 14:32 And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
Blessings