Thoughts On Suffering

Thoughts from my Mom: "I've noticed that after a tiring ordeal of suffering, relief can almost feel euphoric. I think this is how suffering and God's blessings go hand in hand - we don't appreciate the blessings nearly as much until we have experienced suffering. Our sense of joy is in direct proportion to how much we have suffered. I heard Joni Eareckson Tada on the radio last week talking about suffering. She believes God only gives suffering to those whom He trusts to handle it. I guess this means that those of us who suffer are really a lovingly chosen group, who are given an extra blessing in life in order to experience deeper joy and bring even more glory to our King of Kings!" Illness can be really humbling. I believe that God often uses it to make us think; to put us in a place where our daily activities can no longer distract us. One of the books I have found most comforting to read when I feel particularly weak and sick is Amy Carmichael's Rose From Brier. She describes the many, many blessings she received while being bed-ridden with a variety of illnesses. I am always amazed by her openness to God's mercies and her joy despite suffering! "God never wastes His children's pain."- A.C. Quiz: Which Book of the Bible are you?