Finding Purpose in Your Pain
Often times in life, the challenges that we are faced with connect us to our purpose. That seems odd, right? But I remind myself, that my ways aren't God's ways, neither are my thoughts like His thoughts.
In those moments, I change my perspective and remember Jeremiah 29:11:
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
We were created for a purpose, God's purpose. You may find that the very thing that irritates you the most is the reason you were created...to solve THAT ill or problem! Then there are those challenges that are put before us that God's desires us to overcome. On the other side of that challenge, we are to reach back and strengthen, encourage and/or share our testimony with our brother. The good in our pain or challenges is that we will be able to help someone else, as God intended.
I have sat before many successful people and listened to their "why." Time and time again, they have overcome great adversity. Even to the point that I've thought, if that is what has to happen for me to become successful, I am not even sure I want that! Yet, I have had my share of turbulent times.
I mean...
Who wants to lose thousands of dollars for what seems to be fruitless efforts?
Who wants to endure hardship after hardship with no sign of light at the end of the tunnel?
Who wants to work 8-10 hours in Corporate America and come home to work some more for themselves?
None of that seems glamorous but it may be necessary to fulfill your purpose. Nothing is more satisfying than flowing in your anointing and walking in your calling. Nothing! However, to whom much is given, much is required and sometimes that includes suffering and difficult times.
We rejoice in Romans 8:28 but what about Romans 8:17...that comes first. As children of God, we are joint heirs with Jesus...which means we suffer with him also. Yet, great is our reward.
I don't expect you to shout "Hallelujah" when suffering comes your way. We are human but know that God is with you and there is a purpose for your pain.
