We can be so good at handling sin the wrong way that we fall short of the life God wants to give when we allow him to uproot it. The writer of Hebrews says, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (Heb. 12:1–2).
Jesus is interested in perfecting our faith, in finishing the work he started. This is a journey that we have to be willing to cooperate in by first being honest about who we really are.
But where there is confession there is always God’s comfort. 2 Corinthians 7:10 says, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.” There is no condemnation (Rom. 8:1). Only life and freedom and sharing in God’s holiness.
There is a “harvest” if we don’t give up or give in during difficult times when we sense we are being “trained” or disciplined by God. Which is why we are often commanded to be patient in suffering (James 5:7). We need to be careful not to miss a future harvest because we are unwilling t0 endure a current hardship.
If God is disciplining you, be encouraged. He considers you his son or daughter. His discipline is out of love. He is remaking you and growing you. Don’t give up or grow discouraged. Repent where necessary. Run to the cross. Rely on the Holy Spirit. And remember that God’s love is always good, even when it is not gentle.
***
Excerpted from Ruth and Patrick Schwenk’s new book, In a Boat in the Middle of a Lake, available now.
At some point, we all find ourselves, like the disciples in Mark 4, in a boat in the middle of a lake. For some of us, this is the loss of a loved one. For others, a disability or financial insecurity. For Patrick and Ruth Schwenk, it was Patrick’s cancer diagnosis at age forty-three.
In this powerful new book, the Schwenks share their personal stories of loss and tragedy, along with strong Bible teaching and the experiences of nearly twenty years in pastoral ministry, to show that one of the greatest ways God transforms us is through trials–through difficult seasons of loss, disappointment, weakness, and suffering. Because while we live in a culture that values strength, control, and comfort, God does his greatest work in us through our pain. It’s when we’re weak that God has us where he can work with us. But that is never where he leaves us. It’s through the hurt that we come to fully know the hope that is ours in Christ.
