R.A.D.I.C.A.L. Thoughts

"Seasons of personal suffering are opportunities for God to do his deepest work."
Larry Crabb, author of "Shattered Dreams"

I don't like suffering. For me or for anyone else. I can't watch it on T.V. even though I know it's not real. I cover my eyes in movie theatres so I don't have to see it. And that's just pretend suffering and pretend characters. But during my journey through real, personal suffering I realized later that I had learned some of my most valuable life lessons. In looking back, I can remember the despair and agony ... vaguely. When you are in the heart of darkness every breath is difficult and every action takes extra effort and sometimes you think, "What's the use?" I'll tell you what the use is. It's your refining. It's helping you discover what is really important in this life. It's strengthening you so that you can face absolutely anything life throws at you with confidence and peace. And later, you'll even get back to joy. I know it might not seem possible right now if you are in the darkest night of this experience. But take heart. Hold on. Learn the lessons of personal, private suffering and you'll discover a robust, joyful contentment with all of life. Remember, no matter how long or how dark the night is, dawn is coming.

"Anyone who meets a testing challenge head on and manages to stick it out is mighty fortunate. For such persons loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life."
James 1:12 (The Message)