When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten. John 6:12-13 (NIV)
God hates any waste – especially when it comes to our pain. He uses all He allows to conform us into the image of His Son that He might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. Everything that is permitted in the life of His heirs of mercy He uses for their good and His glory - one never surpassing the other. We are to keep our eyes open to the movement of His mighty Hand. It often takes years to prepare His vessels for use, narrowing our lives, tempering our personalities and honing our skills so that we will be an effective arrow in the Archer’s quiver. Think Joseph. From being sold into slavery by his brothers to being falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife, to being forgotten in prison by the cup bearer, all were used by God to build and prepare this mighty servant for the job of saving his people from starvation as the second highest in command of Egypt. Remember, God always has a plan and it is a good one, as well as perfect and pleasing. Romans 8:28 attests to that. Those who love Him and have been called according to His purposes, He works all allowed for their good.
It is easy in the midst of the hardship to loose focus and want to abort mission. Blinded by pain, we cannot possibly see any benefit that could come from it. Wait for the Lord. Be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. We are to keep our eyes fixed on the Author and Perfecter of our faith Who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame. What joy set before Him? The bringing of many sons to glory. When we are in the “land of dragons” so to speak, depend upon Him. It is He Who will take us from “strength to strength” as we pass through our Valley of Baca (tears). We can trust Him with our life. Remember, nothing shines brighter than a believer resting secure in the Lord in the midst of battle.
We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. 2 Corinthians 1:8-11 (NIV)