From "Streams in the Desert"
"Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?" (John 18:`11)
Straight forward question, asked in different ways by so many since the fall of man. Here, finally Christ is showing this need for man to give way to God's will and way. As noted in the devotion for today, to "Drink the Cup" is the greatest act of faith and the greatest work we do here.
Exercising faith in all the steps of life, especially through tough times, heartache, oppression, and times of confusion are greater than everything else we do. We must during these difficult times and days, reach deep within to hang onto our faith. This is when we yield to the Master's hand, to whatever tool He is using in our life.
Although difficult and often a mystery to us during these times, this is when we grow in grace. God's grace is sufficient,just ask Job or Paul. I could list example after example, however the point is this. Without pressure, there is no endurance. Without the winds of trouble, there is no growth. Without the silence of "unanswered prayers", there is no longing of presence. Without the daily strife of this life, there is no need for our Savior.
We have a desperate need and that need is Christ! The longing in the pit of our soul is for God and placed there by HIM. Job said, "shall I not accept the good with the bad?" Without difficulty, would the sweeter times and days be sweet? The oak grows stronger by the winds. Pebbles on the beach are made smooth by the relentless crashing of the waves. All of the finest, greatest and most beautiful things in our life come through pressure and trials.
Welcome today, the tool in the Master's hand. He has a plan that is greater than all our dreams.
Be BLESSED Always!!!
