Devotion for Today

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Divine Artistry

November 15, 2013

Yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.
–2 Corinthians 12:5

Dr. Edward Judson, in speaking of the life of his father, Adoniram Judson, at the dedication of the Judson Memorial Church in New York City, said, “Suffering and success go together. If you are succeeding without suffering, it is because others before you have suffered; if you are suffering without succeeding, it is that others after you may succeed.”

Happy are they that mourn. They can be happy because they know that their pain, their distress, and their privation are the travail of a new creation, the birthpangs of a better world. They can be happy if they are aware that the Master Artist, God, is employing both light and shadow to produce a masterpiece worthy of divine artistry.

They can also glory in their infirmities, smile through their tears, and sing in the midst of their sorrow, because they realize that in God’s economy, “If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him.”

Prayer for the day

In suffering I will learn to praise You, loving Savior.

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8 Comments

Elaine says 11.16.2011, 2:09 p.m.

Suffering is a normal part of the Christian life. Through suffering God works His redemptive power into our lives and continually transforms us into the image of His beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Suffering purifies our heart and our motive and teaches us to forgive. If we have not suffered we do not have much to offer those who do.

Brenda Savino says 11.15.2011, 11:13 p.m.

I just found out today after 18 years of Lyme disease that I will have to go through another round of IV antibiotics. The last one was 18 months. It is on the cusps of being invited to start traveling and telling my testimony to college students about suicide prevention. I lost 2 friends to suicide, 9 months apart. I know that their is an enemy out there trying to stop me, but I will take my IV's and pole with me if I have to. The most important thing to me is that I get the word out there to teens and college students that suicide is not the way out. Please read my testimony on facebook at Beyond Blessings. I will not be defeated.

Magnhild says 11.15.2011, 4:18 p.m.

The Lord has promised to be with us through even the valley of death. He will be with us and lead us when we are suffering. I know that He is with me even in times with much pain in my body. He will bear me and comfort me when life is hard to go through. Thank you Billy Graham, for those daily Devotions. May God bless you!

Glory says 11.15.2011, 12:07 a.m.

Lord, help me to learn through my infirmities. Amen

Annie says 11.15.2011, 09:20 a.m.

Great servant of God, Paul the Apostle's life is revealing this truth, "Suffering and success go together." 2 Corinthians chapter 11 and Philippians chapter 3 for a good example. Thank you Rev. Billy Graham for your encouragement for our daily walk with God. God bless you, your family and your ministry always.

Gerry says 11.15.2011, 06:28 a.m.

Suffering is never fun. However it is necessary as God's plan for our lives is always perfect . Find comfort in knowing there is growth in suffering and God will not permit more than you can bear.

Bajeh says 11.14.2011, 11:46 p.m.

What a lovely message, I'm blessed with it. May the good lord bless and renew your strength Billy.

mick says 11.14.2011, 11:56 a.m.

"those who mourn shall be comforted"

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