I WANT TO KNOW HIM (PART 4)
Posted on June 19, 2017 by Graeme Wilson in Freedom Fighters
[For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope] … Philippians 3:10 Amplified Bible
Welcome to this new week of Freedom Fighter blogs. I am thankful for the men who faithfully join me each week in writing to encourage you in your walk with the Lord.
For the past several Mondays, we have been digging into Philippians 3:10 and conversing about wanting to KNOW HIM.
This week I want to share that KNOWING HIM IS A PAINFUL EXPERIENCE. It’s not the part that we necessarily want to sign up for, do we? But if we are going to REALLY know Him, suffering is part of the package.
“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.
For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.” 1 Peter 4:12-19
Brothers, will you consider these five talking points?
- Suffering is the will of God.
- Suffering draws us closer to Christ.
- Suffering purifies us.
- Suffering is part of the conforming process that Christ uses to make is more like Him.
- Suffering is never in vain.
- Suffering is for a season.
I will take the next couple of Mondays to unpack this truth. We all have been there and if you haven’t suffered, there’s no way you are getting out of your earth suit without going through something in your life.
2 Corinthians 12:10 “Therefore I take pleasure in being without strength, being insulted, experiencing emergencies, and being chased and forced into a corner for Christ’s sake; for when I am without strength, I am DYNAMITE!”Have a blessed week.
Rejoice! Pray! Give thanks!
Bill Welte, D.D.
President/CEO of America’s Keswick
Written by Dr. Bill Welte, President/CEO of America’s Keswick: Bill has been married to his child sweetheart for 40+ years, and has three married kids, one that is engaged, and 10 amazing grand kids. He loves music and is an avid reader.
The Daily Bible Reading: Leviticus 1-3| You can download our 2017 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here
Think About This: Don’t give in to fear today. The Lord Almighty is your Savior, and He is with you in whatever you’re facing and wherever you go. Paul David Tripp
This Week’s Verse to Memorize:
“Now, my God, I pray, let Your eyes be open and let Your ears be attentive to the prayer made in this place.” 2 Chronicles 6:40
Want to get away & have dedicated time to read & learn God’s Word?
Consider a retreat at America’s Keswick retreat center.
