Embrace Suffering

"Don't run from suffering"

SCRIPTURE
Luke 9:23-26 Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat—I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? If any of you is embarrassed with me and the way I'm leading you, know that the Son of Man will be far more embarrassed with you when he arrives in all his splendor in company with the Father and the holy angels.

OBSERVATION
Have you ever felt like were am I going, I thought I would've done this or that by now. Embracing God means embracing suffering which in turn brings growth and maturity (embracing suffering = embracing growth). I want to be "fully developed" in Christ, the way He intended me to be. Obviously that doesn't mean I'll be perfect, but I heart will reflect that of wanting God's will in my life and following Him.

APPLICATION
Embracing His destiny for my life. He knows best.

PRAYER
Dear Lord, thank You for Your love and that You have a plan for my life. Lord, I praise You that that means there will be suffering, which means You want me to mature and grow. You want the best for me and that's why You allow certain things. Thank You God that You said in yesterday's journal that during those rough times You'll put my feet on firm foundation and lift up my head! In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.