In the ring...

"Some have only learned to trust the smile of His face, but they must also learn to trust the blows of His fist" -Spurgeon

I read this quote from Spurgeon today and it caused me to stop and consider my circumstances. While things are hard right now and I can't see beyond the second I sit in, my God knows all things and can see all things. He is El Roi.

I praise God that He has given me these trials...moving, infertility, the death of my father...because without them, I may only know to trust the smile of His face. God has purposed all things and His word says "that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, have been called according to Him purpose." (Romans 8:28) Ephesians 1:13 says that "God works out EVERYTHING in conformity with the purpose of His will." And even more, in the Old Testament God said through the prophet Isaiah, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD." (Isaiah 55:8) He has made it very clear: He is trustworthy and His purposes work for His glory. In my opinion, we are deceived as a society to think that all good things make us happy and rich. I would like to think that the Lord has given me the faith to say that His "good things" may very well hurt and cause tears or pain, but they also cause growth, repentance and joy. To reap growth, repentance, joy and a deeper knowledge and intimacy with the Lord, it is worth it for me to experience the blow of His fist. He is sovereign.

Not only is my faith growing right now as I learn to trust the blows of God's fist, but my character too. These words from James speak volumes to me right now, "Consider it pure joy my brothers when we face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (James 1:3-4) May I rest in the Holy arms of Jesus while I am learning to trust in the blows of God's fist. I look forward to the other side of these trials, but I can certainly praise Him for the time I have to be humbled, broken and taught. May I enjoy the smile on God's face as I feel the mighty blow of His fist.