character – Brian Friedl https://brianfriedl.com Making Your Life's Mission Possible Sat, 19 May 2018 12:16:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.3.17 64732294 Suffering: What Is It Good For? https://brianfriedl.com/suffering-what-is-it-good-for/ https://brianfriedl.com/suffering-what-is-it-good-for/#comments Wed, 13 Dec 2017 13:15:50 +0000 http://brianfriedl.com/suffering-what-is-it-good-for/ There are few who enjoy suffering and most would avoid it all together if possible. We must recognize; however, it has its place in our process of being conformed to the image of Christ.

For with tribulation and suffering comes a new level of dependence on our Heavenly Father. It demands a perseverance we otherwise would never see develop in ourselves. This perseverance leads to true character in word and in action. We are able to see our deep need of Him and He is faithful to fulfill our every need. And what is waiting for us at the end of this process? Hope. Hope that does not waver, doubt or disappoint, but thrives in the confidence of His proven faithfulness throughout the trials and tribulations.

Remember God is causing all things to work together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. (Rom. 8:28). What ever your suffering is, it is building a testimony of His faithfulness that has the power to change the world. Make sure the tribulation is not wasted but that it brings glory to Him through your witness to others.

Reflection

What’s your normal reaction to suffering?

What sufferings are you going through right now that could be used to glorify Him?

Prayer

Gracious God, thank you for the tribulations that are producing perseverance, character, and ultimately hope in us. For You are faithful in all things and love You LORD! Build in us the testimonies of that faithfulness that all may see Your glory. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!

]]> https://brianfriedl.com/suffering-what-is-it-good-for/feed/ 2 1496 Why Paul? Why You? https://brianfriedl.com/why-paul-why-you/ Tue, 17 May 2016 12:55:04 +0000 http://brianfriedl.com/why-paul-why-you/ Have you ever wondered why God chose Saul(Paul) to follow Him?  It certainly was no accident.  Paul, himself, teaches that the grace of the Lord was more abundant with faith and love in Christ Jesus (vs. 14) and that Jesus might demonstrate His perfect patience for those who would believe(vs. 16).  Paul believed and trusted that God was revealing Himself through the power He worked in his own life.

If God could love Paul, certainly He could have patience for me, right?  The Lord wants to make sure you know Him.  He chooses to do that through the broken ones; like Paul, you and me.  It is the love of Christ that compels us.  The law points us to our need of Him.  For we cannot keep it as hard as we try, but when we love Him, a shift takes place and the law is no longer a burden but a delight to us. Yet we stumble here and there; ever thankful for the grip of our Savior holding us.

Personal Reflection

 I marvel at the LORD’s patience with me. It is easy to get frustrated when people don’t do what I expect, especially as a parent.  The LORD deals with that on the scale of the entire planet and yet He loves and moves patiently to reveal the Truth to each of us at every moment.  How has God used your conversion to show His character to others?  Are you actively sharing that with friends, family and acquaintances?  Praise God for what He has done in your life and ask Him to give you opportunity to share your story with others

Prayer Focus

Father, you have done so many mighty works in the lives of so many including each of us.  May we reflect on each one in our own lives and see your marvelous hand.  Let us tell of your might and equip us to share who you are with others.  Go before us and tune ears to your truth. May you be glorified now and forevermore, in Jesus’ Name, Amen!

#gospelpower #livestransformed #truthtalk4life

@brianfriedl

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