Pain

The fear of uncertainty causes us to run . . . fast. We run to places we think will bring comfort. We run to where the pain can be dulled, at least for a while. These are unhealthy destinations that deliver short-lived satisfaction and false hope. God has a different remedy for uncertainty. He tells us to stay put and wait for his confidence.

Let me start with a question, “What do you live for?” What is the calling, the initiator, the motivation of your life? Check out this passage from 1 Peter.

When you read devotionals pertaining to marriage, some of you may feel like I am rubbing salt in your wounds. That’s certainly not my intent, and for those who have been divorced, I know the pain is deep. And I know many of you tried so hard to keep your marriage together. You can’t undo the past. You desire to make your life count for God. Thank God he offers forgiveness and restoration to us all.

Don’t try to blame others or rationalize. Own up to what you said or did and replace selfishness with kindness. When you do, you are benefiting yourself…and others. 

Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He never fails to provide everything I need.

Jesus offers us a future, and he works in our present. He sympathizes with our weaknesses and is there to meet the crying need of our hearts.

One day Jesus will wipe away every tear and welcome you to the home where pain, suffering, crying, and tears cannot enter. Your darkest night will one day be erased by the view of the Son.

I will share in his glory forever. Be encouraged! The best is yet to come.

Being man and sinless, Jesus was the only one who could die on man’s behalf. There was no other one and no other way. And yet we get just a hint of the pain of the cross in today’s passage.