You probably didn’t that when you accepted the LORD as your Savior you were being drafted into His army and would have to endure boot camp, possibly several even, depending on your calling and future assignments! Welcome to His glorious company. You will enjoy it more than you may think.
RELEVANCE
Actually, you brought yourself into signing up for something glorious. You became a joint heir with the Son of God to await a glorious union for eternity. In the meantime, you have the opportunity to grow into the union and be a partner with our Lord Jesus.
“Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world” (1 Peter 4:12-13 NLT).
Keep one thing in mind: God honors those who endure suffering. The LORD suffered immensely on the cross. This is your opportunity to follow His way. It proves character and makes you worthy of the gift of His amazing grace.
“For God is pleased with you when you do what you know is right and patiently endure unfair treatment. Of course, you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps” (1 Peter 2:19-21).
REFLECT AND RELATE
In boot camp discipline is worked into you as you march in step with the company of soldiers. Ask God about the rhythm of heaven. Ask Him how to march in step with His rhythm, keeping His cadence. You will come to understand what I call, “grace at His pace.”
REFERENCES
John 17:20-23