It has been a rough couple of weeks for pastors in our area. On Christmas Eve, my good friend, Pastor Darrell Stuehrenberg, broke his shoulder in several places. He went on to preach the morning and evening services at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Davie and is now, officially, the toughest guy I know. Last week, we also received news that Dr. D. James Kennedy of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church (the closest Christian Church to us) suffered a major heart attack. Please pray for both of these servants of Christ.

This morning I began reading the book of Job during my morning devotions. I am reminded from both my personal circle and from God’s word that Christians are not immune from suffering. Believers throughout the centuries have suffered both for the sake of the Gospel and for reasons beyond our understanding.

My personal problem with Job, Darrell, and Dr. Kennedy is that things are going pretty well for me right now. We have some very exciting things happening here at Shepherd of the Coast. My family is well. My wife and I just celebrated 10 years of marriage and we have never been more in love. I’ve lost a little weight (very little) and I feel pretty good. I frankly feel a bit guilty when I look at the difficulties those around me endure.

Guilt can serve a constructive purpose, but not in this case. Gratitude is much more productive in my situation. Suffering certainly serves God’s plan in our lives, I need to remember that blessings do to. In Christ, the good, the bad, and the ambivalent work together for good to those who are His. We give thanks for all of it!

As you begin 2007, are there any blessings in your life that are serving God’s purposes?