But it hurts. . . .

There’s something about the nature of suffering that has the greatest capacity to reveal truth. –Art Katz


Somewhere along the way, we got it wrong. Our Founding Fathers wrote of certain inalienable rights, but sometimes it seems the only one we are interested in is the pursuit of happiness. We watch “Happy Days” and eat Happy Meals; we are advised to “just grin and bear it,” “don’t worry, be happy,” and “put on a happy face!”

But let’s face it: sometimes, things stink.

Our home life can be challenging. Our job can be a real bear. Some days, even getting out of bed can feel like a real effort. But we keep all this to ourselves, because after all, the Good News is all we need to be liberated, enthused—and happy. Right? (Nope.)

Jesus never promised that following The Way would mean a life on Easy Street. There would still be tough times, hard days. Like it or not, if we are going to grow and mature—as people and as Christians—growth is almost always going to come with pain in one form or another. We will be stretched, confronted and challenged to become more of who we are created to be. Our comfort zones may be blasted to smithereens! Our lives may have days of confusion; there will be tears and fears. And—we will get through them, and come out stronger, better—and maybe even happier. But not without some pain and hardship. And you know what? That’s okay. You are never alone. Lean on one another.


Monday Where does it hurt? Is there something or someone in your past begging forgiveness? As God to guide your heart. Job 42:1-3

Tuesday We are a people who desire control. What one thing might you let go of—and feel better? Numbers 20:2-12

Wednesday Go outside. Sit. Listen. Breathe in life; breathe out love. Give thanks. 2 Samuel 7:18-29

Thursday Stay up past your bedtime tonight, turn out the lights, go outside or to a window—and look up. Enjoy the magnificence of the night sky. Give thanks. Psalm 121

Friday Did you know . . . August is the only month with no official holidays? Today, set aside time for a private celebration of a special moment you recall. Praise God. Psalm 119:49-50

Saturday Today, be honest with yourself. Is there something you need to do that you’ve been making excuses not to? Hold yourself accountable and just do it. Acts 5:1-10

Sunday Think (again) today about why you chose your church family and house of worship. Praise God for your special church family that is so much more than the sum of its parts. Amen? Acts 17:24-28
  

Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny. –C. S. Lewis


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