A devotional by Temeka Borden
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”
– Romans 5:1–5 (KJV)
Merriam-Webster defines the word “trial” as “a test of faith, patience, or stamina through subjection to suffering or temptation.”
One thing I always remind others and myself as I undergo trying times is that these periods are a necessary part of life. They do not always feel good, but the reward one reaps after passing the test is worth it. One key biblical figure I typically mention when discussing trials and hardship is Joseph (son of Jacob).
Loved and highly favored by his father, yet despised by his brothers, Joseph suffered through much. He endured betrayal by his kin. He was sold into slavery. He was tossed into prison based on a false accusation. Yet, at the right time, he was released and provided with the opportunity to save a nation. The Lord used every hardship Joseph suffered through as stepping stones to Joseph’s position and his settlement into the palace.
When you are in the middle of a storm, it is often difficult to see what is ahead. Your vision is sometimes clouded by all the challenges you are faced with. You may feel as though things will never improve. However, what many fail to realize is that every single thing in our lives serves a purpose. Also, many forget that God is a healer, a deliverer, and a miracle worker. The marriage that failed, the job you did not get, the job you got but hate, the bills you cannot pay, the abuse you may be subjected to, the illness that seems to never go away—the Lord can repair, restore, and/or bless you with something better.
God can provide you with the emotional, spiritual and mental strength you need to endure your trials. The Lord will give you what you need to endure the process. However, you must be willing to go through the process. Although it may be a long, arduous journey, it will be worth it.
Do not let your current hardship discourage you or make you feel as though life will never get better. Many times, God is allowing your trial to strengthen you and He is using certain circumstances as tools to prepare you for advancement.
Romans 5:1–5 reminds us of the benefits of our trials. Read it for encouragement to persevere.
Do not worry when life gets hard. Trust Jesus Christ.
Believe that your trials are only making you and have faith that a beautiful future awaits you!
Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for being Lord over all! When we face trials in this life, please give us the strength to endure. Help us to remember with You on our side, we will be able to move forward and persevere no matter what life throws at us. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.
*Note from Alexis: Temeka’s devotional message today reminds me of Jessica Reedy’s song “Better.” Watch the mime interpretation of Reedy’s song here.
~*~
Author Bio:
Temeka Borden, better known by her pen name “Positivity Inspires,” is an author, speaker, minister, PharmD, multi-state licensed pharmacist, founder and owner of Positivity Inspires, LLC, and most importantly, a servant of the Lord.
She was introduced to Christ at a very early age and was raised in the church. Her ministry focuses on encouraging Christians to love God first, to love all people, to continually strengthen their bond with Christ, and to study His Word, and live His Word daily.
Dr. Borden has been blessed with a variety of gifts, and she has gained much professional experience in a variety of settings. She also has served in administrative roles in the professional and church settings. In addition to obtaining her PharmD, she also obtained her bachelor’s degree in biology (minor in English), and she is working on her third degree. What’s more, as stated in her words, “I completed a specialty pharmacy residency that prepared me for the workforce and made me a force to be reckoned with.”
Temeka is a long-distance runner, a drummer, a singer, and she has a strong “fashion sense.” She also can read and type at almost supersonic speed in some instances.
Dr. Borden loves to learn and is constantly looking for new ways to challenge herself.
She loves God and she loves people. She is “crazy about her family,” and she adores her friends. She strongly encourages others to show kindness, respect, and love to everyone.
Temeka loves and welcomes diversity and flourishes in culturally diverse environments.
Dr. Borden loves to laugh and loves to make other people laugh. She also is passionate about giving back to the community. Her favorite sayings are “Speak Up!” and “Watch God Work!”
~*~
Connect with Temeka:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PositivityInspiresPage/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/positivity_inspires/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/pinspires
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.