When I worked for the Federal government, one of my favorite collateral duties was ‘Trainer.’ Most companies have a budget to hire professional trainers whose programs enhance the quality and productivity in the work place. Though it can be costly, they consider it a good investment in their employees.
In the spiritual realm, through many trying circumstances and stresses, God is training us both for time and eternity (1 Timothy 4:8). Paul calls this God’s “endurance training.” And it is essential if we are to someday “reign with Him” (2 Timothy 2:12)—literally, then, we are training for reigning.
Also, it will help us to endure—with joy—if we believe God’s training is His investment in us, knowing that His training will result not only in accomplishing HIS eternal plan but will result in OUR eternal reward. (You might call it a ‘win-win.’)
Even Jesus recognized the need for divine training—“He learned obedience through the things He suffered” (Hebrews 5:8). The Bible tells us that Jesus’ training was necessary to perfect Him in his humanity so He could realize God’s eternal purpose for Him.
Why should it be any different for you and me?
Greg,
ReplyDeleteYesterday saw the culmination of a lot of "training for reigning!" My wife and I were pleased to help someone for whom we have been praying earnestly move into their first home away from their parents' home. It was significant because this person was convicted of a felony and no apratment complexes would rent to him and his family.
But God made it possible when no one thought it could occur. God still works miracles in answer to prayer. My wife and I have been learning how to pray for this individual and it hasn't been an easy thing to do because we have rarely received fair treatment from this person. But God had a bigger picture in mind--bigger than our sense of justice!
God is gracious and God is good--all the time!
Stan