7th Day of Lent

During the Lenten season, followers of Jesus spend a great deal of time reflecting upon the sufferings of Jesus, beginning with His time of testing and temptation in the desert before His earthly ministry began. We have spent some time this week, also reflecting upon the role that suffering plays in the lives of those who follow Jesus and how God works to bring goodness and beauty out of the times of pain and hardship in our lives.

For today’s reflection, please take a few moments to look at the words in the box below. How do you think these words might be connected to each other? What inner responses are you experiencing as you read the words?




The words in the box are key words found in two New Testament passages (found below) that speak on the topic of suffering and tribulation and how those times in the lives of believers can be times of learning and growth…enabling and enlarging us to become more and more like Jesus.
At this time, you are invited to read and meditate on these scriptures and if you are willing and able…to pray the prayer of surrender below.

Hebrews 12:10-12 (New International Version)
Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.

Romans 5:3-5 (New American Standard Bible)
And not only this, but 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.


Prayer for this moment:
Lord, have your way in me.


Please add an entry to this blog to share any thoughts or reflections about today’s Lenten devotion.