Grace flourishes in suffering

My husband and I recently relocated (temporarily) from the East Coast to the West Coast in the USA. We both sensed this was a definite call from God due to a family member in crisis. For me, it’s been much like living in a foreign land, in a place I’m unfamiliar with away from family and friends. We were also suddenly faced with increasing financial need beyond what we could afford when forced to rent in one of the most expensive places in the country. Trusting God was all we could do.

It’s my belief in every season of adversity, our Lord utilizes the raw materials of our suffering with its attached frustrations, irritations, and exhaustion, so you and I draw upon Grace as a significant source of strength. When we find ourselves unable in these unexpected trials, we’ll discover a profound abiding place in our Lord's love.

In the pressure cooker of life, transformation will occur as we learn the art of ‘letting go’ of our self-reliance — our knowledge, beliefs, methods, ingenuity, security, comfort, and friends. Simultaneously, we’ll choose to permit the activity of the spirit of love to continue reorienting, redirecting, and renewing our minds nearer to becoming God’s image-bearers.

No matter what we’re experiencing — good or bad — our most essential 'need' is surrendering to Abba's loving voice. Discerning His voice and making holy choices while responding obediently to Him in spite of our circumstances is all part of the cost of our discipleship in our relationship with Him.

The transformation Abba desires may require suffering and pain. My response, your response, and our collective reaction is a lifestyle of responding, as Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit reveal the vision of their love and galvanizing Grace within the community.

“Let us therefore draw near with boldness unto the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and may find grace to help us in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 ASV

by Lorraine Taylor
Upstate NY, USA - info@grace-lines.net