GOOD NEWS – GREAT NEWS
The Apostle James encourages us to consider trouble when it comes our way, to be an opportunity for great joy.
Common sense tells us this is foolishness, however, the Bible clearly states that God’s ways are not our ways. His wisdom exceeds both our wisdom and common sense.
So why in the world would James encourage us to consider troubles as an opportunity for great joy?
James goes on to tell us that when your faith is tested you’re endurance is fully developed, so let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you’ll be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
This is where the beautiful words and wisdom instruction of Psalm 23 comes into play. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”
My life experience tells me compassion and pain go hand in hand. I often say, “show me a man over 60 who has an abundance of kindness and I will show you a man who has overcome great pain.”
Going into the oncologist, or the hospital Susie and I pray our baseline, foundation motto, “Be joyful always, pray without ceasing, and in everything, give thanks for this is God’s will for Fred Crowell in Christ Jesus.”
Too many of our friends and relatives are going through really tough tests. They could use good news and even better, great news.
One of my great, great friends has been fasting one day a week for me. This means so much to me. Who can you pray for today? Remember encouragement is oxygen.
