Romans 8: 18-24
Have you ever gone through a painful situation that makes you want to give up? Or has it been so long that you are completely over it? Romans 8:18-24 tells us that our present suffering does not compare to the future glory and uses the example of labor to describe it. For those who have not given birth, let me tell you, it can be painful! But if you ask any mom, they will tell you the pain and exhaustion did not compare to the amount of joy and relief they feel after labor. When I found out I was pregnant with my first child, I was excited, nervous, and happy. My first trimester was amazing; I had a little morning sickness here and there, but nothing too bad. Then my second trimester came, and my feet would get swollen after walking around the block. But when my third trimester came, I was over it! I honestly just wanted my pregnancy to be over. I was expected to deliver around Christmas, but my daughter did not come until after New Year. The contractions did not let me have a good night’s rest, so I was tired and in so much pain. But then it was time, time to push with the very little energy I had to finally hold her in my arms. The feeling when I saw her was indescribable. Once I thought the pain was done and over with, I had to use the bathroom. Some of you might have no idea what that has to do with anything, and I won’t go into details, but just know post-partum is no fun either. Again, I was exhausted and in pain, but I would do it all over again because it was worth it.
Now let me use a different analogy. When one goes to the gym, does cardio, lifts weights, etc., it takes time to see progress, and it is not easy. They start off motivated and encouraged, but then they feel sore, don’t see the progress, which causes discouragement, and at times they want to give up. But instead of throwing in the towel, they push through, and it’s all worth it in the end. I do not know if you are in the process of feeling the excitement, joy, and motivation of doing God’s will, or if you’re in the painful, wanting to give up, discouraged, or “over it” stage. But just push through. Push through your suffering, pain, sorrow, or soreness until you receive the joy, glory, and blessing. I promise you, it will be worth it! Just push through.
Prayer:
God, you are a good, good father! Thank you, God, for turning our suffering to glory, our curse to our blessing, and our test into our testimony. Help me push through the discouragement, pain, and exhaustion until I labor the harvest you have for me. Enable me to keep my focus and eye on you rather than what I am going through. For your honor and glory, in your name, I pray, amen.
Worship Song: