We Aren't In Heaven Yet

2 Cor 12:8-10 (NKJV) Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

While reading through Pastor Chuck Smith’s (Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa) new book “A Memoir of Grace”, the Holy Spirit is using His life to so encourage me in the Lord. It’s so wonderful to be reminded, and shown at the same time, how God has uses everything in our lives to prepare us for what’s up ahead.

In a powerful paragraph, he captures from his own life’s experience, the reality of Christians facing pain. He writes:

“Yes, there is a divine blessing hidden in every day, free for the taking and totally unrelated to moral cause and effect. But grace does not shield the cruel realities of a world damaged by the fall. We are not in heaven yet and God does not spare us from the crushing blows that come to everyone. We lose people we love. We suffer, we grieve, and we journey on. But even in the darkest nights when awakened by the widows shuddering with the blast of a storm, we are not abandoned. Through the wind and over the turbulent sea, grace comes to us with the comfort of heaven, the support of God’s Spirit, and the strength to draw our next breath and take the next step. Grace brings hope. Hope pushes forward.”

Are you hurting right now? Grace brings hope. Hope pushes forward.

I’m praying for those who receive this note that are hurting. May the comfort of His Spirit flood your soul. Perhaps you can forward this on to a friend that’s hurting too so that ministry of God’s comfort multiplies.

In Much Love,

Pastor Ed

RESPONSES:

What an awesome testimonony! I also wanted to tell you how awesome the message yesterday was also! The Holy Spirit is working in these last days & what a blessing to be a part of it all! Thanks for keeping JESUS FIRST in your life & for your dedication to serving our family of God!