Working out with weights is called resistance training. You break down the muscles to cause them to rebuild stronger. It’s how God designed the process. The spiritual growth process is similar. God brings us through trials and tribulations against our will—even though we may resist the process. The more we understand about what God is trying to accomplish and go with Him not against Him, the easier the “workouts” become.
RELEVANCE
One thing to know about trials and tribulations: God has an end in mind that is for our benefit and His glory. He has a determined purpose. Peter called it the “foreknowledge of God the Father” (1 Peter 1:2). We learn this from the prophets and Job.
“My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord — that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful” (James 5:10-11).
REFLECT AND RELATE
Cast your eyes forward, not backward. Look ahead to what God is preparing for you. If you don’t see anything, ask God. Ask “that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance…” (Ephesians 1:17-18).
REFERENCES
Philippians 3:12-16 and 4:6-7