The Christian walk is not just a test of one’s commitment to endure trials and tribulation. It is also a learning curve. The further we travel and the closer we draw to God, the better equip we are to handle unexpected situations. However, perfecting the walk with God does not depend on years of service, or even how knowledgeable and bright we are. It has more to do with the relationship we have with God. The closer we are to God, the more He reveals those things which we would not normally understand.
One of the most fascinating and exciting aspects of walking with Jesus is when He brings us new insights, and deeper understanding of His Word. It is like unexpectedly finding a large golden nugget.
There are certain passages of Scripture that we may have read for years, but have not yet grasped their fullest meaning. In any given moment, the Holy Spirit can open our spiritual eyes to see something in those passages that have never seen before. For example, I have read James 1:2-4 (“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops patience. Patience must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything”.) many times, but I have never fully understood how anyone could rejoice in suffering.
However, after reading “Why does God discipline us”? At http://watermyflowerslord.wordpress.com/ I finally understand what James meant. Sometimes suffering happens for discipline and correction. We also know that sometimes God allowed suffering to prove a point, as in the case of Job. God was confident that Job was steadfast in his faith, and it did not matter what the devil threw at Job he would not falter.
So my brothers and sisters, the next time you encounter trials and suffering, count it all joy, because you may never know whether your suffering is for discipline and correction, or God is just showing off on the devil about your steadfastness.
Still, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11). Therefore, God has a reward waiting for you at the end of your suffering. He restored Job’s fortune twofold.
Let's Talk Gospel 
I am so humbled by this, I cannot even comment. Thank you so much for adding such beautiful words to my post and making us grow further. God Bless, SR
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Each one teach one. Thanks so much S.R. The Lord has His hands on you.
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You have taught me much! I am so glad our Lord has Big Hands that He has them on you also! God Bless, SR
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Great message Bro. Noel! Our trials and sufferings also help us to identify with Jesus Christ in His sufferings….we should expect to have difficulties if we are followers of Christ.
Good job Man of God!
Minister Glenda
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Amen! Thanks so much for your comment Minister Glenda. God blesses.
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When I read those verses in James, four words stand out boldly – COUNT / KNOW / LET /ASK.
To me, they say . . .
I can COUNT it all joy when beset by trials, because I KNOW the purposes of God. I can LET God’s maturing process work in me, while I ASK for wisdom, that I won’t waste the opportunity, but will use it to grow and mature in Christ.
I agree with you about the fascinating aspect of Scripture. A verse or passage which we have read possibly hundreds of times, suddenly opens up to us in a new way and speaks directly to something we have been praying about.
What an amazing God!
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Thanks so much Angela for your input. Your wisdom, knowledge and understanding of God’s Word are truly remarkable. I am extraordinarily thankful that I am a member of your community. God blesses.
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Noel…*sigh*. Thank you, brother. Thank you for always teaching from the perspective of experience. I can’t seak for anyone else, but I always need that!
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Thanks so much for your kind words Afi. I give God the glory. He is the Author and finisher of all things. God blesses.
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Excellent post, Noel! Rejoicing in suffering definitely appears to be quite an anomaly. However, when we couple it with another Scripture that says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love the Lord, to them who are the called according to his purpose,” then there is that trust and faith in the Lord, that although the suffering is painful or uncomfortable, there will be some good coming from it. At times, I must admit that it is definitely difficult to see it, until we draw closer and closer to Him! May the Lord bless you!
Paulette
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Amen! Thanks so much for your input Minister Paulette. Your candor and consistency fascinates me. It is an honor to be a part of your community. God blesses.
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Hello Friend!
AWARD ALERT: I’ve been setteling into a new role as catechetical directer at a new center for new evangelization in NY, so I have not been able to keep up with the blogging activities as much lately. We’ll be getting the ball rolling again very soon. In the meantime, here’s something I think you and your blog deserve: The Super Sweet Blogging Award. Please check out the post on Biltrix for details. God bless!
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Thanks so much for nominating me for The Super Sweet Blogging Award Biltrix. It is truly an honor to be a recipient. God blesses.
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