Page 80 - Grace150 Devotional

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved
by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than
gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and
glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6–7
I want the Lord’s blessing in my life—comfort, joy, and peace—without the
refining fire. I want the mountaintop experience without training and sacrificing
for it.
Without discomfort, do I truly know His comforting Spirit? Without sadness, do
I appreciate the joy of the Lord? Without conflict, do I accept the peace that only
Christ gives?

In these “withouts” of my life God draws me closer and I recognize my greater
need for Him. In these trials I see God’s mercy and grace more clearly: not
receiving the punishment I deserve but receiving the blessings I don’t deserve.

Lord, help us recognize Your glorious blessings in our “withouts.”
– Elizabeth Parker

DAY 73 grace 150