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God Wants to Glorify Himself in You—Even in Difficult Situations

November 19, 2024

Hey Clawson Family!


Song: 





Scripture:


Paul’s Joy That Christ Is Preached


12 And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters,[c] that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. 13 For everyone here, including the whole palace guard,[d] knows that I am in chains because of Christ. 14 And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers[e] here have gained confidence and boldly speak God’s message[f]without fear.


Devotional:


The apostle Paul wrote these words while imprisoned in Rome, a situation that would seem bleak to most. But instead of despair, Paul recognized a higher purpose in his suffering: God was using his chains to glorify Himself and advance the gospel. The guards who monitored Paul were hearing about Christ, and his endurance was a testimony of God’s power to others.


This teaches us a profound truth: God doesn’t waste our trials. Even in our most difficult seasons, He is working to bring glory to Himself through us. Our struggles, disappointments, and pains can become platforms for God’s purposes.


Like Paul, we may not understand why certain things happen. But when we trust that God is sovereign and good, we can look beyond the surface of our hardships to see His hand at work. Difficult situations often open doors to sharing Christ in ways we never imagined.


For instance, you may face a health challenge, but your perseverance and faith might inspire someone around you to seek God. A loss or setback could provide opportunities to show others how God sustains and comforts His people. Whatever your "chains" are, they can be used to glorify God and point others to Him.


God doesn’t just allow difficult situations; He transforms them into opportunities for His glory. Trust Him, even in the hardest times, and let His light shine through your life.


Journal:


In your journal, write down what personal challenge or trial you have been wrestling with. Take time to reflect and see His purpose in difficult times. How can you use your story to encourage others?


Training:


Heavenly Father,


Thank You for being a God who works all things for Your glory and our good. Help me to see beyond my difficulties and trust that You are using them for a greater purpose. Like Paul, let my trials become testimonies of Your faithfulness, and may my life point others to Christ. Give me strength, courage, and boldness to glorify You in every situation.


In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Practical Application:


  1. Trust God’s Sovereignty

When facing challenges, remind yourself that God is in control and is working all things for His glory and your good (Romans 8:28).


  1. Look for Opportunities

Ask God how He might want to use your circumstances to bless others or share the gospel. Like Paul, your situation could be a mission field.


  1. Share Your Story

Be open about how God is sustaining you. Testimonies of faith in difficulty often resonate deeply with others.


  1. Pray for Boldness

Paul wasn’t silent in his suffering. He boldly shared the gospel. Pray for courage to do the same, even when it’s hard.


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