29/03/2013
Lessons We Learn in Gethsemane
Read | Matthew 26:36-46
When you are suffering, do you turn to God’s Word? That is the only source we can count on to bring life, hope, and promise to otherwise hopeless situations. Its principles illustrate how to—and how not to—deal with trials. When we respond God’s way, the difficulty that threatened to harm us actually enriches our character and enables us to do greater works for Him.
I believe that the most intense suffering ever recorded was that of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. Christ knew that by bearing our sin, He was about to endure not only a gruesome and horrific crucifixion but also the full force of God’s wrath. Even more devastating, He’d be separated from His Father for the first and only time since eternity past. That’s something no other child of God will ever have to endure, because Jesus’ agony achieved mankind’s redemption. So we know that whatever trial faces us, God will be by our side, supporting us through it.
Let Jesus’ Gethsemane experience be your example in times of trouble. Our Savior trusted His Father fully and accepted His will. Remember, the Father is in control. He limits the length and intensity of the pain. And, while He hurts to see His children suffer, He loves us enough to allow the difficulty. There is a beautiful harvest of growth and purpose if we embrace His road for us.
What trial are you facing? Do you trust that God is in control? Our Father allows pain because He loves us. Only He knows whether hardship or blessing will bring about the needed changes in our lives. And He will spare no experience, effort, or heartache to conform us to His Son’s likeness
