It Wasn't Meant to Destroy You

After all, it wasn't meant to destroy us ...but designed to bring us to the end of ourselves. Self-denial is painful and not often talked about in our culture because it’s not flashy, fun, nor popular. Yet, it’s the essential requirement to following Jesus …Matthew 16:24 ...a tenet that gets lost in a culture that is teaching us how to idolize people/things and focus on ourselves. Yet this life ...will cost us and its challenges are a sobering reminder of our dependence on the Lord, His instructions, and what He says about us. 

The goal? To ensure He is exalted and glorified in every area of lives. It’s the pruning, the correction, and the promotion …collectively …that sustains our focus on Him. So we must be willing to embrace the surgical cutting that leads to our healing and growth. The disappointment of people that redirects our confidence in the Lord. The “no” that is a distraction to the “yes.” The frustration that produces patience and hope. All working together for our GOOD! He didn't promise us a life without challenges ...but He did promise us LIFE …good cheer, and sweet rest in the midst of it. 

It is the exceedingly great reward to know that Jesus empowers us to remain grateful, content, settled, and FULL of joy through it all.

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🔥Romans 5:1-5🔥