I don't KNOW suffering...
Everything is not always EASY for me...
I have for sure felt PAIN and DISCOMFORT.
But, last night, as I held a neighbor, a battered wife,
As I felt her body shake with FEAR... and SOBS...
I recognized.
LORD, I do not know SUFFERING!
Under the cover of darkness, as we prayed and cried together,
I ENCOUNTERED suffering.
Then, she dried her eyes, she stood tall and walked back into her home... back toward her abuser...
Determined to face what she felt God was asking her to face.
I had NO ADVICE to give...
I wanted her to stay in my home with me, safe for the night - she refused.
But, I could only watch her walk...
Back toward SUFFERING.
All night long, even now, I am continually praying for her!
And recognizing that I don't KNOW suffering!
And, I'm scared to repeat this verse - but, I'm saying it now...
If it means that I will KNOW You more closely, LORD,
Let me also share in YOUR suffering!
For my determined
purpose is that I may know Him -
that I may progressively become more
deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing
and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more
clearly,
and that I may in that same way come to know the power
outflowing from His resurrection,
and that I may so share His sufferings as to
be continually transformed in spirit into His likeness even to His
death.
Philippians 3:10
Cammie-
ReplyDeleteEverytime I read your blog I am reminded of the many blessings He pours on me daily. Thank you for pouring your heart into those precious people. It's interesting that you post about suffering because I have Been hearing this message quite a bit in the last couple of weeks. Through our suffering we do draw nearer to Him- and the blessings that come from the trial is better than we can imagine.Thank you for continuously reminding me of the Living God we serve and how brightly he shines through your family! Praying for you. Leanne
my heart breaks. We've been watching this unfold in the building next to us with a teenage boy. Heartbreaking. I am not sure I am ready to pray your pray. Your faith inspires me. Blessings to your family.
ReplyDeletePraying for her too, and you.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you and your family.
ReplyDeleteI am inspired and I shall along with you. My family,has seen suffering much like how you've described so I will pray for Gods peaces and His joy,to be over your family and your neighbors.
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