Your Mess is Birthing a Message

‘And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren” (Luke 22:31-32).

  

‘Your pain can become someone else's gain. Your ministry to others can come out of that mess'.  According to James McClelland, Henry Francis Lyte who had pastored a church in England for over 20 years had a health challenge. His doctor's diagnosis showed he had 'consumption' and was asked to leave his seaside location to sail mid sea so as to take in as much as he could from the sun, or else he would die. He was frail and very sickly. With death so close, he had lost strength. But he managed to muster some courage and took the pulpit and enjoined his tear-filled congregation to keep faith in Christ.

Later that day, he took part in the Holy Communion. In that state of grief, he sought solace from God at home later that evening, and he received the inspiration to write the hymn "Abide with me". He set out for Nice, southern Europe the following day but died two months after. His last words were 'joy' and 'peace', yet he left a beautiful legacy through which millions have found solace since November, 1847. From his experience, we know it is possible to comfort others out of your uncomfortable situation. When you experience times of testing, you've two choices: give up, or grow up. Strength is born out of struggle. Without obstacles we'll always be ordinary. How can you celebrate victory unless you've known defeat?

As a Child of God you are hidden in Christ and Christ in the Father, so you are out of the devils reach,  as long as you abide in Christ by continually surrendering your will to Him (Col 3:3). So Paul said, ‘…we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose’ (Rom 8:28). Hard times energize some people, yet paralyze others, the difference is attitude. Your attitude in times of distress should be that of Joy and faithfulness. ‘My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing’ (James 1:2).

If the bones of a dead Elisha gave life, then you can be a lifeline to others even at your point of greatest weakness, let hope stay alive (2 Kings 13:21). Are you troubled? Let this be your song, ‘Abide with me - fast falls the eventide. The darkness deepens; Lord with me abide. When other helpers fail and comfort flee. Help for the helpless, O abide with me’ (Henry Francis Lyte).