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5 Rewards To Pain
Contributed by Jamie Wright on Dec 6, 2004 (message contributor)
Summary: God does not cause painful experiences in our lives, however, He allows them. Why? To test our faith, to mature us and to bring us into a closer relationship with Him.
Rewards to Pain
Pastor Jamie Wright * MFC *
Pain- to hurt, wound, damage, offend, upset, insult, impair, and cause suffering!
Types of pain:
Physical pain- arthritis, from abuse
Emotional wounds- grief, depression, anger, revenge (brought on by words)
Mental anguish- paranoid,
Relationship pains
God will not be ignored! He can create painful experiences, unforgettable experiences. Jonah is a perfect example. He rebelled against the instructions of God. (Jonah 1:2) He had to experience three miserable days in the belly of the fish before he came to his senses and accepted his Assignment.
Never misjudge God. Never think that He will ignore tiny acts of defiance. Discipline comes. Reaction comes.
Look at the life of Joshua. When Achan rebelled and kept some of the spoils of war, they lost the first battle of Ai. In a single day, their reputation was stained, Joshua’s men lost total confidence. Achan had ignored the command of God. Consequently, the entire nation suffered defeat until obedience became their priority again. Few have grasped this truth: One person’s disobedience can create corporate judgment.
Remember, the waves of yesterday’s disobedience will splash on the shores of today for a season.
Pain is corrective! It happens in the Potter’s house, where our Father is remolding common clay vessels for uncommon assignments.
Psalm 119:71 “It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn Thy statutes.”
Do not misunderstand the hurting seasons. They birth the healing process.
1. Pain forces you to Look…to the Word of God for Answers.
2. Pain forces you to Lean…on the Arm of God instead of man.
3. Pain forces you to Learn...where you went astray.
4. Pain forces you to Long…for His Presence and healing.
5. Pain forces you to Listen…for changes In God’s Instructions