Monday, October 24, 2011

It's An Ill Wind That Blows No Good

We've had at least two hail storms this past spring and summer that might be considered "ill winds that blow no good".

That's an old saying, "It's an ill wind that blows no good." Meaning, of course, that even bad things sometimes bring about good. In this case, eleven out of twelve homes on our two-block street have new roofs. Homeowners are happy...new roofs paid for by insurance. Insurance companies are probably not so happy. Not just on our street, but all over town, new roofs have been going up all summer. (Our own roof was only a year old and did not sustain damage.)

Life itself is like that. We see the storms of life and often fail to see the "good" that come of it. Cancer could surely be called an "ill wind". But whether it be cancer, or stroke, or heart, or simply the vagaries of old age, we are all tested with some "storm of life" before we leave this world.

This morning I was reading in Romans 5 where Paul writes that we, as Christians, "exult in hope of the glory of God." He adds something that seems confounding to us, and something that we would rather not hear. He says that we should be exulting in the the difficulties life brings, but who wants to exult in difficulties? Let's go back to Paul's words...."we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." (Romans 5:3-5).

Often, when reading these verses, we might think Paul, in speaking of tribulations, is speaking of those trials and persecutions experienced by Christians at the hands of unbelievers. But tribulations are tribulations, and age and ill health are part of the tribulations of this earthly life.
It is good to remember to "exult", knowing that tribulations will bring good things to us, regardless of initial appearance.

Paul continues with a third exultation in Romans 5:11, "...we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconcilation (to God)." Through the work of Christ on the cross, we have been reconciled to God. We who were once alienated are brought back into right relationship to God. (You can read more about this reconciliation in 2 Cor. 5:17-19).

The storms of life hit everyone sooner or later. It is good to know that in the midst of the storm, God is working good on our behalf. Thanks be to God.

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9 comments:

Kelly said...

This makes me think of something I read in my devotions over the weekend. Phil. 4:13 has Paul telling us we can do all things through the strength of Christ, but in reading the verses before this I was reminded of the fact this is in context with being content no matter what our circumstances. So often we forget (or at least I do) to read the verses that surround our favorites. I just love how the Word is fresh and new each time I read it.

Debby said...

My niece had a post on her facebook which read: Being happy doesn't mean everything is perfect. It means you have decided to see beyond the imperfection.

S. Etole said...

A new roof is going up here this week ... unfortunately it's not covered by insurance but still needed.

Tina said...

Great post as always. I love your insights into some well known verses! Hope you are doing well!
Tina

Trisha said...

Knowing this especially well these days. Thank you for more encouraging words and for the truth of God's Word!

Servivorgirl said...

I always feel comfort in your writings...........Thank you.

Glenda said...

Thanks for this reminder! As the song says, when we can't see His hand working, we can trust His heart! And I believe His great heart has good plans for us - even though storms rage around us. It's so easy to get my eyes on circumstances - when I need to "turn my eyes upon Jesus." I'm thankful He's a patient Teacher!

Debra said...

Beautiful-happens to coincide perfectly with the beautiful sermon I heard at church today-thank you for this post-as always-love your insight and writing. So good to have you visit me too.
Love, Debra

Kim@stuffcould.... said...

This is a thoughtful point...we do suffer ill parts in life.