“But He knows the way that I take: when He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Job 23:10
Thus, it is important for us to understand a spiritual principle that applies to the present workings of the Lord, so we will know how to better respond to the difficult situations in which we find ourselves.
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28
There is a present need for “overcomers” - those who have risen above a hurt or misunderstanding, and did not become bitter or vindictive. As a result, these overcomers have become compassionate and understanding, and have a desire to bring healing to those who have been wounded, and as a result have withdrawn from fellowship with the Body of Christ.
If you are burdened to minister in this area of critical need, you must be willing to subject your life to circumstances, or to dealings which are beyond that which is required for your own spiritual discipline and walk. This is necessary so you will be able to compassionately relate to the trials of those who are wounded or deeply hurt, and then, understand how to help them.
When I made Jesus the “Lord” of my life, I gave Him the right to deal with me as He chooses for whatever purpose He may have. Over the many years that I have known the Lord, I have learned that many times He has used this submission of my life to Him in order to prepare me to minister to another.
The circumstances that He takes us through for this purpose are usually apart from, and completely different than any need that we may have within our own life experience. However, these experiences will “qualify” us to become an instrument in His hand to help and encourage others.
“Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we may be able to comfort those experiencing any trouble with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” II Corinthians 1:3-4 NET Bible
We are to “comfort those who are hurting with the comfort with which we ourselves have been comforted.” This means that when we experience a similar circumstance, we are enabled to help others, because of the help that we ourselves have received from the Lord.
