Great expectations...... (Full Version)

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Little_1 -> Great expectations...... (7/12/2008 5:23:47 AM)

quote:

Great trials seem necessary preparation for great duties. - E. Thompson


In light of God's Word and what it teaches about trials and difficulties - do you believe that the above quote has any relevance and truth?



Kat_D -> RE: Great expectations...... (7/12/2008 7:48:21 AM)

3 "And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope."-Romans 5

2 "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." -James 1

And the greatest example of all, Jesus Christ, Who suffered the greatest trials and suffering of all to finish the greatest work of all.

30 "So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit." -John 19

3 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. 6 Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation." - II Corinthians 1



Liveloved -> RE: Great expectations...... (7/12/2008 11:41:38 AM)

quote:

quote:

Great trials seem necessary preparation for great duties. - E. Thompson

In light of God's Word and what it teaches about trials and difficulties - do you believe that the above quote has any relevance and truth?


Absolutely. Paul's prayer in Philippians tells us that to be found in Christ, to know Him, you must enter into the fellowship of His sufferings. In fact, in I Thess Paul says we are destined for afflictions/suffering. We prove what the will of God is. The proving is the needed preparation.



Focusing -> RE: Great expectations...... (7/12/2008 1:26:05 PM)

Great trials seem necessary preparation for great duties. - E. Thompson

In applying this statement to my own life, yes. I look back to the huge trials I have been through, and the struggles I have experienced, which are a very big part of my personal testimony. And I see how God has used me in helping others (which I equate to *duties* He has given me). If I hadn't been through those trials, I would not have been prepared for those duties. I would not have the understanding of what others wearing the same shoes I have worn are going through. I would not recognize the subtle signs that go along with those trials and difficulties that others are going through.

I keep this in mind when going through trials now, and I ask Him "Father, what is it You want me to learn from this?"



Little_1 -> RE: Great expectations...... (7/12/2008 4:59:00 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: Little_1

quote:

Great trials seem necessary preparation for great duties. - E. Thompson


In light of God's Word and what it teaches about trials and difficulties - do you believe that the above quote has any relevance and truth?


"Yes", e.g. some Biblical brethren:

- Jesus
- Job
- John the Baptist
- Paul

Honesty and heart-felt empathy are powerful when witnessing to others who are going through difficulties. How could Jesus truly empathise with us unless He too knows what it is like to suffer and face trials, e.g. scorn, rejection, pain, being misunderstood, beatings, hatred towards him, and ultimately death.

The Bible also speaks of "comforting others with the same comfort with which God afford us". I strongly believe that God works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to his purpose. God can turn something broken into something beautiful for His purpose if we will allow Him to take us and use our lives and experiences. Where suffering may not seem to make sense to us at the present time, God can build into our lives purpose which stems from such as only He can, e.g. the cross looked like the end for Jesus but in fact it was the means of salvation for so many countless souls. Something 'ugly' became something beautiful because of God. God can and does give his people 'beauty for ashes' when we submit to Him in all circumstances and I truly praise Him for this. Hallelujah.



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