TESTING

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After a long life I have made up my mind that life it's self

is made of simply one problem after another.  In fact when

things go too well, or smooth for a while - I wonder what is

wrong.

Right off I have to admit that God has always pulled me 

through one way or another.   But here I am again with 

a bunch of problems facing me.  No, I am not worried 

about it because ultimately God will work them out.

But, why can't I have a rest from them now that I am

an old man.  Has there not been enough problems?

I was reading in my Bible this morning in several different

places and three different passages hit me between the 

eyes.  Let me share them with you first, then a word

of encouragement.

"And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations,

knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance:

and perseverance, proven character, ..."

(Romans 8:3,4 NASB)   

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you

encounter various trials knowing that the 

testing of your faith produces endurance."

(James 1:2,3 NASB)   

"We count those blessed who have endured.

You have heard of the endurance of Job and

have seen the outcome of the Lord's dealings,

that the Lord is full of compassion and is 

merciful."

(James 5:11 NASB)   

Now if I did not have a relationship with Jesus 

Christ, these problems might be an effort to make

me get my mind off of my abilities and look to him

for help.  A lot of us will not turn to God until we

are knocked down and can only look up.  Then the

problems are still a blessing.

But I have been walking with God a long time.

[True, not near as close as I should.]  so why do

I still have problems.  The above Scriptures make

it clear that they are to help me endure, to strengthen

me and help me become stronger in my life with

God.  All through life God gives me problems to 

develop me into the person he wants me to be.

For this I should PRAISE GOD.

But consider one more fact.  It is true only of those

who love God.

"And we know that God causes all things to 

work together for good to those who love God,

to those who are called according to His purpose."

(Romas 8:28 NASB)   

There you have it.  If I love God, EVERY problem

that comes my way ultimately works for my good.

NOW HOW CAN YOU BEAT THAT?