Great preachers

Today's Daily Bread

Great preachers
 

(philstar.com) Updated April 21, 2012 

The testing of your faith produces patience. — James 1:3

The greatest sermons I have ever heard were not preached from pulpits but from sickbeds. The deepest truths of God’s Word have often been taught by those humble souls who have gone through the seminary of affliction.

The most cheerful people I have met, with few exceptions, have been those who’ve had the least sunshine and the most pain and suffering in their lives. The most grateful people I have ever known were not those who had traveled a pathway of roses all their lives, but those who were confined to their homes, some to their beds, and had learned to depend on God.

The gripers, on the other hand, are usually those who have the least to complain about. The men and women who are the most cheerful and most grateful for the blessings of Almighty God are often those who have gone through the greatest trials.

The Bible tells us if we respond properly to the trials of life, we will develop patience and godly maturity (Rom. 5:3-5; James 1:3-4). We must keep in mind that our present sufferings are “but for a moment” and that they are being used by God for our eternal good (2 Cor. 4:17-18).

So take heart, suffering one. Someday you too will realize that it was worth it all (1 Peter 1:7). — M. R. De Haan, MD

It will be worth it all when we see Jesus,

Life’s trials will seem so small when we see Christ,

One glimpse of His dear face wall sorrow will erase.

So bravely run the race till we see Christ. — Rashol

READ: 1 Peter 1:1-9

Some of life’s greatest lessons are learned in the school of affliction.

The Bible in one year:

• 1 Chronicle 24-26