Wednesday, March 10: God Never Wastes a Hurt

“Now I want you to know, brothers, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole palace and to everyone else, and that most of the brothers, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.” Philippians 1: 12-14

As I think about the betrayals, pain and suffering that mark much of the Lenten season, I also think about Paul. Like Jesus, he suffered and endured pain in the name of God and for the common good. Even as he writes this letter to the Philippians from jail, he exudes joy. His letter is so passionate and he writes with so much love and hope.

Paul sets an example for all of the Philippians and for all of us. It’s hard to find the good in every trial. Sometimes it takes a lot of imagination and convincing, but it’s there. God doesn’t waste a hurt. As followers of Christ we know this. His thoughts and ways are higher than ours. His plan and timeline is different. We know this, and yet our lives can be so frustrating.

The crucifixion and resurrection are reminders that God really does have a plan for us. Even when we have unbearable situations in our personal lives, God is with us. We hurt, but we know these troubles will pass and a valuable lesson or something good will come from this. It’s not God’s job to prove it to us, it’s our responsibility to listen, watch and believe.

Even when we have troubles we will continue to rejoice, Lord, for we know that through You our trials will lead to our salvation.

Emily Brown