MINISTERS MUSINGS

NOVEMBER 2006 MUSING

THE UPS AND DOWNS OF LIFE

Sometimes when people are hurt they go to extraordinary lengths to safeguard themselves in the future, even to the point of avoiding making friendships. When we consider it life would be very dull indeed if all were plain sailing. It is the ‘downs ‘as well as the ‘ups’ which helps give life a purpose and a meaning. Smooth wheels on a smooth surface will not propel a vehicle forward. There must be some friction if things are to move. Life is a bit like that. Adversities promote growth and strength for the future.

Recently I read in an RBC Ministries newsletter of some scientists who grew acacia trees in an artificial environment which simulated every weather condition they could think of except for wind. To their surprise several trees bent towards the ground and some even snapped. Without the stress of the wind to strengthen the wood the trunks could not sustain their own weight.

A certain amount of stress or friction is a strengthening and refining process. Adversity can bring out the noblest in human nature. Christians are not promised that they will be protected from testing and adversity. Consider the trials endured by the first Christians, even to the point of martyrdom. That is the bad news. The good news is that we do not stand alone when afflicted. God can and does sustain us. Remember what Christ endured. Even so, in the end He was victorious. The apostle Paul puts it in his inimitable way; ‘Do not lose heart ……….for this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for the weight of glory beyond measure’. (2 Corinthians Ch 4 verse 17) .

The words of Mother Julian of Norwich are also worth bearing in mind.’I did not say you will not be tempested but that you will not be overcome’.

May these words bring you comfort and hope.