REFLECTIONS

God’s Schoolhouse

Things seem to come easier for some people than they do for others. Sometimes it’s because some are smarter, sometimes because some have more resources, or better skill, or other attributes that seemingly give them a leg up in this life. But before getting down on your shortcomings remember Psalm 139:14: I am fearfully and wonderfully made. God made you for your season of life and with the basic gifts you need to serve the purposes He has for you. And He will train you in the specifics to do them.

Continuing education (CE) has never been high on my list of favorite things, but through life experiences, God prepared me for my assignments. Looking back at life threatening health issues, financial problems, relational challenges, loss of loved ones, and at numerous disappointments, I am thankful God used those dreadful times to reshape and bless my life.

When God imposes CE, He usually chooses a desolate place like the desert. God has a schoolhouse there. Moses was exiled to the desert for 40 years before he led the Israelites around in the wilderness for 40 more, finally guiding them to the Promised Land. John the Baptist lived in the desert most of his adult life before anointing the Son of God. Before spawning churches and preaching the love of God to the world, Paul spent three years in the desert sorting out the lessons learned on the Damascus Road. Even Jesus spent 40 days in the desert to prepare for Satan’s enticing temptations.

God prepares each of us for the roles he has chosen us to play. God’s schoolhouse is the place He often selects to train us, refine us, and reshape our lives. God uses trying times to prepare us to fulfill his purpose for our lives.

Meanwhile, in our simple minds, we suffer to understand what He is doing.

“You are the light of the world.”

Richard +

www.reflectingthesavior.org

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