The Process: Part One

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love." Romans 5:3-5 NLT

God is a God of processes. This I know too well. So many times I have wished that He would come and instantly bring my healing or the solution to my problem. I will sit and wait for an audible voice to come out of the sky in my quiet time sometimes. I so badly want to hear which path I am to take when stuck at a crossroads decision.

True, there are times He does choose to speak audibly to us in one form or fashion: a mentor in our lives, a Pastor or a burning bush. But God can also be...silent. He doesn't do this to make us go mad with wonder nor does it mean He is displeased or the answer is no. He wants to take us through the process.

He wants to see us work through this situation. He wants to see us relate His word with the Holy Spirit's whispers in our heart. He wants us to discover  the truth for ourselves and for that he uses processes. Sometimes they are short and sometimes they are long. But this is what builds the endurance which builds character which builds confidence, as is described in the verse above.

When we come out of the process we are stronger for it. You know the saying, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger"? Think about if you were told before a process whether it be concerning your finances and sorting through a bankruptcy or a healing and you had to first deal with the diagnosis and the anxiety for the future. Perhaps your process is going through college and all of its ups, downs, bad grades, hard teachers, etc. These are all processes and a vital part of our lives that either kill us or make us stronger. I don't mean literally, but if we allow it to, it can kill us spiritually or emotionally.

God knows this life is hard. In John 16:33 He says "Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." Did you hear that?! He has already overcome the world!! That means with Him on your team, you won't fail. Will it be hard, yes? Long, probably? Will you be alone? NEVER! Oh and another thing...YOU WILL GET THROUGH THIS! Remember to everything there is a season! Each process has it's purpose for the season you are in. 

Here is the good news. The quicker you allow this truth to really settle in your spirit...the less difficult and probably the less lengthy that process will be. 

Remember, loved one, REJOICE! This process you are going through will only help to bear more fruit in your life and if you do it right, you might be able to help someone else one day who has faced a similar process you have already gone through and came out of!

Enjoy this beautiful song by Amanda Cook and Bethel called "Shepherd". It so beautifully puts to music the essence of this blog. Stay tuned for next week's blog...The Process: Part Two!