"A Word From My Sweet Sister"

This is something I just received from my sister and thought it was so good that I wanted to share it with all of you.

"Some things really spoke to me a few weekends ago when I was able to attend our church's women's retreat.
Seems like lately we have all been bombarded with bad news and many trials and suffering of our friends and love ones.

In one of our talks, I felt like God was talking directly to me after what all we have gone through lately. It was on "Suffering".

As Christians we can count on suffering in our lives, God promises that to us. Suffering is not, in itself and essential good. BUT..... Suffering is ordained by God, and is intentionally used by Him (God) as an instrumental good. We can count on it so should be ready for it when it does come our way. We will suffer!

Suffering can sometimes be Gods designed and appointed means of judgment. Isaiah 10:5-19, Numbers 16:31-35, 41-50
Suffering can be used to call his wayward children back to him. Proverbs 3:12
Suffering can be an appointed means for the growth and strengthen of believers in Christ. Romans 5:3-5
Suffering can reveal human weakness so Gods glory may be on full display. 2 Corinthians 4:8-12
Suffering is simply a necessary and expected part of ones discipleship to Christ, in that it will prove and test our allegiance to, and hope in him ALONE! This is made to make you like Jesus! 2 Timothy 3:12

Nothing will EVER ever enter your life that is not for His glory or your ultimate good!!!!!!!!!!! Romans 8:28-29

Clinging to these truths gives me such HOPE in our trials and suffering times.

The Joy will come!!"

Thanks Ivey! Such wondeful words and what a great reminder!