Friday, February 24, 2012
Hebrews 5:7 During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
LEARN FROM JESUS' OBEDIENCE AND SUFFERING
We also learn from Jesus' obedience and suffering. First of all we learn to submit to the will of God. When Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, it was a more intense prayer than any one of us has uttered -- and everything was at stake in that prayer. Yet Jesus concluded by saying, "Not My will, but Thine be done." It is also part of the Lord's Prayer, which Jesus taught us. We often say, "Thy will be done," but how often do you think about that? We're saying, "Not what I want to happen, Lord, but what you want." God does want what is best for you. He has shown this in the fact that He sent you His very best, His only-begotten Son. This is proof of His dedication for your spiritual well-being.
God has that long-term vision that you and I do not possess. Sure, we like to speculate on what we will think will happen, but seldom are we right. It is a matter of trust to rely on God for the future. It is also a matter of trust to submit yourself to His will. Here learn of Jesus and His obedience in carrying the cross. God may say for reasons that you cannot understand I want you to go through a financial crisis, or grief as He takes your mom or your husband away before you think you're ready. God may also allow trials to afflict your own body. In His will there may be tough times for us, but it is for a greater goal. In Acts 14:22 we read, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." Learn of Christ to bear the cross, willingly submitting yourself to the will of your Heavenly Father.
We also learn patience from our Savior. For thirty-three years He hid His glory as the Son of God. This was especially true when it came to His death. It was not until after His resurrection that He was glorified. That rightful glory will be evident to all when He returns on the Last Day as Judge of all. The glory that you have coming will also have to wait. God has promised you a perfect body, freedom from sin, and complete happiness, but none of that will be complete here on earth. Searching for that here on earth will leave you empty and frustrated.
Learn patience and contentment will follow.
