"The Shepherds Way" E.W.King: PAIN WITH A PURPOSE

PAIN WITH A PURPOSE

Freelance writer Lupie Riley

Thought: Recently I attended a lady’s luncheon that featured a prominent speaker named June Hunt who is also up in her age. During her message four words spoke to me that had me thinking about my own physical pain. She said “pain with a purpose.” How many of us are suffering from some type of pain? It could be physical or emotional pain. Your upbringing may have been one of chaos, abandonment, or sexual abuse. How do we get a purpose out of this kind of pain? Could it be learning how to forgive? What about physical pain that so many of us suffer daily? Could it be about learning how to trust and depend on the Lord’s strength?

Many in the Bible learned their purpose through trials and tribulations. The Lord had a plan in the abandonment of Joseph. He had a plan for Moses as a leader. He had a plan in David killing the giant. He had a plan for Daniel in the lion’s den. He had a plan in Esther approaching the King that could have ended her life. Scripture says “for I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope (Jer.29:11).”

In listening to June’s message, it was inspiring to me that she was a senior citizen and still productive in her old age, traveling and doing speaking engagements all over the country. Also authoring many books along the way. I’m also in the winter stage of life with frost on my hair and God certainly has a purpose for my life. Even though I suffer daily pain from a bad hip and heart problems, I still move forward and enjoy the company of my Lord. Do you have the joy that comes from His Spirit within giving you hope and purpose no matter what your age or problems? Here’s some scripture for seniors that will lift our spirits and give us purpose, hope and joy.

Psalms 92:14 “Even in old age they will still produce fruit and be vital and green. This honors the Lord and exhibits His faithful care. He is my shelter and there is nothing but goodness in Him.”

Isa. 46:4 “I will be your God through all your lifetime, yes, even when your hair is white with age. I made you and I will care for you. I will carry you along and be your Savior.”

Prov. 31:25 “She is a woman of strength and dignity and has no fear of old age.”

Prov. 16:31 “White hair is a crown of glory and is seen most among the godly.”

Titus 2:4 “These older women must train the younger women to live quietly, to love their husbands and their children.” This is a responsibility for those of us who have years of wisdom behind us.

The overall purpose of God’s plan for each of us is to grow in the faith, share the Salvation message with others and enjoy His presence in our life. This is called the abundant life.

Prayer: Father God, now that I’m in that winter stage I can trust you to give me purpose and strength for each day. This is a promise you have made to me and I stand on that promise. I still have my pain, but I will always have a purpose in glorifying you in all I say and do. Amen

Verse: Psalms 118: 24 “This is the day the Lord hath made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Married 58 years, four children, nine grandchildren and three greats. I've been a freelance writer for over 40 years. Working on a book at the present. My priorities are God first, family, country.