August 5, 2007 8:14 AM
Elisabeth Elliot on life's trials
Difficulties are Proof ContextsRepeatedly I am asked variations of this question: Did the Lord comfort you or were you sometimes lonely or sad? It is not an either-or thing. If I had not been lonely and sad at times, how could I have needed, received, or appreciated comfort? It is the sick who need the physician, the thirsty who need water. This is why Paul not only did not deplore his weaknesses, he "gloried" in them, for they provided the very occasions for his appropriating divine help and strength.
It was in prison that Joseph knew the presence of the Lord.
It was in the lion's den that Daniel's faith was proved.
It was in the furnace that Daniel's three friends found themselves accompanied by a fourth.
We have plenty of "proof texts"--but in order to experience their truth we have to be placed in "proof contexts." The prison, the lion's den, the furnace are where we are shown the realities, incontestably and forever.
As always, I'd like to encourage you to include Elisabeth Elliot in your morning reading. She gives you a lot to think about during the day. Subscribe to her daily devotions here.
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Comments
Oh, boy. So perfect. Thank you, Barbara.
I am currently waiting to miscarry for the *third* time. Tomorrow I am going to the hospital. God has sent so many great friends and family my way in the past few weeks to support me through prayer and companionship. Meals came the past few nights and will continue for a few more.
I know I am being held and God is comforting me through wise words (like Elliot's) and the unselfish actions of others. I know I am not alone. Because I feel such love, I am better able to talk with God, do my Bible study, marvel in His grace. Of course I am sad. But I don't wish to fight where I am or what I am going through. I was brought here, to this place and this day. I have to bear the burden of going through the miscarriage physically alone---nobody else can do that for me. But God has been with me every step of the way.
Posted by: mopsy | August 5, 2007 9:31 AM
I found elizabeth elliot last year through your reccomendation on this sight. She truly is an inspiration. Thank you for introducing me to her wonderful devotionals:0)
Suzy
Posted by: Suzy | August 5, 2007 12:14 PM
Barbara,
Thanks for sharing this. I am going to encourage my blog readers to read Elizabeth Elliott's devotionals, too!
Posted by: Elizabeth | August 6, 2007 12:53 PM
