Painful Memories

“That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His suffering” Philippians 3:10

How are you doing today? Is everything in your life great right now or are you suffering? Painful memories? I can relate.

Life’s journey can be painful some times. We all wish we could have eighty years of the “good life” but that isn’t real life, is it? Recently the Lord gave me a helpful insight regarding painful memories that I would like to share with you.

God is faithful and will walk with us each step of the journey. He will never leave us or forsake us and His grace and strength are always sufficient. Even though some days you may doubt it.

Another lesson is that even though we have forgiven ourselves and others, painful memories tend to keep coming back. During a quiet time with the Lord, I asked Him how I could stop the memories from coming back?

He reminded me of the verse in Philippians:

“That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His suffering.”

He told me to thank Him for the experience every time it popped up in my mind. He also reminded me that I have the privilege of feeling a little of Christ’s suffering during His trial and crucifixion.

When I look at the experience from God’s perspective, suffering becomes a privilege I can share with Him. We get to know Him in a deeper way. I would not have chosen some of the deep valleys I have gone through, but now I am thankful for it.

Jesus, our Master and Friend, said we could expect trouble when we follow Him. We shouldn’t be surprised! But He is there with us, feeling our pain, strengthening us, loving us, giving us grace and wisdom.

Father, we want to know You. Thank You for reminding us about the “fellowship of His suffering.” Thank You for the painful times in life. Thank You for walking with us each step of the way. Amen.

by Katherine Kehler
Used by Permission