Knowing the Intent Helps.

Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you ..." - Ephesians 3:13a

A woman told me she quit sharing prayer requests with her small fellowship group because they could not emotionally handle what she was going through.

It was strange to see - when she would share others would shrink away. She said she was handling her problems a lot better than they were!

The apostle, Paul, had a similar experience and told his followers not to faint for his tribulations.

He was doing well because he could see the big picture of the church at large, and him as part, being used to display God's wisdom through difficulties.

"To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God" - Ephesians 3:10-12

Knowing God's intent and knowing one is on track make all the difference!

- fritz