But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses. 2 Corinthians 6:4 KJV
Approval is an expression of acceptance.
That is what happens when we repent of our sins.
We give our lives to Christ.
Accepting the fact that we need to continually show our belief in the Word.
That as ministers of the gospel, we need to look upon ourselves as God’s servant.
Learning how to endure what the things of life bring us.
Learning how to handle them in the right way.
We must conduct ourselves in ways that reflect God’s character.
Doing things that we know would be acceptable in His sight.
Yes, we all have our moments when we are irritated, grouchy, and even short-tempered.
Times when afflictions, needs and distress get the better of us.
They can be difficult, but we must remember that the Lord withstood it all.
He is our Prime example, and the Word is our reminder.
It is showing us that that there are others who have gone through some things.
Testimonies that we can handle things with patience, love, and kindness.
The Apostle Paul showed this can be done.
He testified to the fact that as a minister of God, he had times of longsuffering.
Times that required he be patient, loving and kind.
He wasn’t boasting.
He was showing that longsuffering is evidence of the fruit of the Spirit that dwells in all our lives (Galatians5:22,23).
The things that cause our suffering is trying to keep us in a frustrated state.
They happen to remind us.
A testing of our faith.
A reminder that no matter what we are going through the way we handle it is an expression of our acceptance of the Word.
To continue to build on our strength, and our faith in the Lord.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Lord there are many things that can cause us to complain and lose patience. Help us to remember those are the times that You are teaching us to be patient, maintain our tempers and be pleasant in all our ways. Just a few of the ways we will make it through life. Thank You for all You do.
In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen