tribulation... really? do I have to?

Romans 5:3-5
 
And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

I've been getting the VOTD from Ann Bailey for at least 13 years that I can remember. The "verse of the day" includes birthday wishes, prayer requests from email list members and other need to know info. I got the above verse today. I've read this passage tons before and even passed it on to others at times. Today it's something I'm chewing on.

See, I don't want the tribulation. Even if it brings perseverance. Or the character. Well, I do want character- His, but not if the tribulation has to come first. But I am all about that Hope part! And so thankful for the pouring out and Holy Spirit part!

I think I finally blogged about my dislike of the MD- as in me going to the MD. Well, I've gotten into a situation that has required some MD visitation. A couple of simple things- a crazy mole I've had all my life finally gone (soon followed by some funkiness associated with the healing) and a stubborn wart on my finger. Let's just say Dr. Holmes and I are bonding- and my wallet is gettin thin. Too bad my deductible is about to be reached at the end of the stinkin year.

But the other thing that's taken me to visit the ol MD is a little more bothersome. They think it's occular migraines. We're still in process on figuring it out. I'll say the experience of said possible occular migraine is completely disconcerting and freaks me out. Enough that I finally caved into goin to the doctor last week. And to gettin an MRI. Let me just say a word of thanks to my sweet peeps who volunteered to sit with me at both. You do my heart good. For literally sittin in my corner.

Anyway- so I'm waiting for the call that says "the MRI showed you have a brain and there's nothin wrong with it. So learn to live with your funkyness." Or the alternate call. Either way there is still somethin else I gotta go back for. You might not call it tribulation. In the big scheme of things it's not. But to me it's distraction enough. Minor tribulation that at times looms large in my crazy heart. And I'd rather skip it.

And at work, the things that add up to tribulation for my friend. For students I know in the midst of finals- some that dictate the next year of their lives. Tribulation. For my friends overseas praying and working to share the gospel in dark places. Tribulation.

But I'm thankful that the Lord does use it to develop perseverance, character, and HOPE remains. The Hope of glory. Eternal life in Him. If nothing else we gain that when it's all said and done.

So I pray that where we encounter tribulation we turn to Him. To see His face and trust Him. To see that (as the good word says) it's light and momentary compared to eternal glory. Easier said than done. Like when I'm sitting at the MD trying not to throw up when I'm talkin cuz I'm so worked up about bein there :) or when the big wigs show up to go over everything you are doing at work. Or death comes. Or pain comes. Or when our trust in someone is shattered. Or whatever we may face.

So, I pray. For those who face those things today. To be reminded that HE is in control. That HIS plan prevails. That HE knows what's best- even when we aren't even sure what to ask for. That we would simply trust Him. And I'm thankful for those who pray for me- when I don't know how. When I forget how to pray for the things I need most. And I'm thankful the Lord created us to be a body. For the different parts that do what they do. I'm thankful for my fellow bodyparts- keep up the good work.

I love you and I love Him for putting you in my life. That includes you too....

Comments

[Jessie Thomas]

Praying for you! I hope you get the better of the two calls :) And thanks, this is a great reminder. And a needed one.