The bird calls out on a July morning. How can the same bird who makes a pleasant cooing sound also make that harsh cawing sound? Have you noticed a multiplication of sufferings since you came to believe in Jesus? The writer of Hebrews noted the same thing many years ago. "But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings." (10:32) It seems that after salvation we may enjoy the fulfillment of one or two of our Lord's promises: the world turns its hatred upon us and we have many tribulations. Of course if those are fulfilled, can we not expect the many other and better promises our Lord spoke to come true as well?
The same mouth that cries out, "Oh, I am afflicted!" can also speak the gentle words of gratitude to God. We have the down payment of many great promises in the Holy Spirit; surely our gratitude can begin there. The promise to return and take us to a heavenly home comes all the more easily to mind when we endure sufferings in our earthly home. But not all of the Lord's promises only come in the sweet by and by, as the old hymn goes. The promise of peace and joy, grace and mercy, and God's steadfast love all come true in the harsh here and now. Seasons beside the still waters and banquets in green pastures we can look forward to in this lifetime. Hmm, I might be mixing a few biblical metaphors there.
Even on a Monday morning we can put some gratitude in our attitude by recalling the One who died to save us. What gentleness and grace our Lord showed to His sheep lost in sin. What compassion from God our Father to send His Son to take the death we deserved. What marvelous grace and mercy the Lord gives to us each and every morning! What a joy to know the Lord Jesus a bit more each day! Yes, it helps to recall the Lord's goodness on a nice morning, and say "Thanks, Lord!"
Have a great Monday in Christ Jesus!Bucky
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