(Psalms 11:1-7) To the choirmaster. Of David. In the LORD I
take refuge; how can you say to my soul, "Flee like a bird to your
mountain, for behold, the wicked bend the bow; they have fitted their arrow to
the string to shoot in the dark at the upright in heart; if the foundations are
destroyed, what can the righteous do?" The LORD is in his holy temple; the
LORD's throne is in heaven; his eyes see, his eyelids test the children of man.
The LORD tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who
loves violence. Let him rain coals on the wicked; fire and sulfur and a
scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup. For the LORD is righteous; he
loves righteous deeds; the upright shall behold his face.
(James 1:12) Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under
trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which
God has promised to those who love him.
The Lord tests His people to stretch them, to mold and shape
them, to sanctify them. When the wicked experience suffering and trials it is a
foreshadow of judgment from the Lord for their evil deeds. When the righteous
experience suffering and trials, it is from the intense love God has for them;
it is always for their greater good, and it is ultimately for the purpose of
their sanctification which is building the kingdom of God.
Giving thanks for trials and suffering is difficult when you
have your eyes focused on yourself. Christ would not have endured what He did
if He was focused on Himself. If you keep the eyes and ears of your heart
oriented to the Lord in all circumstances, you will be thankful for the trials
knowing that you are participating in the building of God's kingdom.
Know that the difficulties and trials the Lord takes you
through actually reflect His great love for you. Remember and remind yourself
that there is a tremendous and significant difference between the suffering of
the wicked and the suffering of the righteous. Build the kingdom of God by
fully embracing and participating (from the Lord's perspective, not your own)
in the life circumstances the Lord brings to you.
Questions For Discussion
Who are the wicked?
How are trials and suffering expressions of God's love?
How can you participate in the building of God's kingdom
through your own sanctification?
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