For consideration as you read:
Yesterday we hinted at the idea that suffering also carries a deeper, eternal purpose. In Genesis 3, we read that suffering entered the world as a result of the fall of man. Once this act was done, it brought pain, sin, and separation between humanity and God. But as Revelation reminds us, this is not the end of the story. But that it holds the promise of full restoration and the undoing of all sin.
God’s desire is to live in close fellowship with man, and man’s purpose is to be with God. As Paul encouraged us earlier this week, Christians must look beyond suffering towards the eternal day when God enacts his final judgment. All wrongs will be made right, all sin will be separated, and all suffering of all kinds will be gone.
So as we conclude this week, be encouraged that present trials are not wasted—they are preparing hearts for the glory that is to come, when God will dwell with His people forever, and every tear will be wiped away.
Scripture: Revelation 21:3-4 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
1 Peter 5:10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
Grab your Bible, a journal, and a pen to reflect on what God is teaching you through this section of scripture. Here is the format that we will follow:
Be Still: As you read, write out the Bible verse or verses that stick out to you most.
Abide: What truth can you learn? Are there any principles or commands present? What is the overall theme of the text?
Adore: What does the text reveal about God and His character?
Apply: How does this Scripture apply to your life today? How does the truth of God’s Word change your daily perspective? How can you live differently in light of this truth?
Pray: Pray God’s Word back to Him. Turn these thoughts into prayer. Ask the Lord to show you how to meditate on and apply this Scripture to your life.
