Dietrich Bonhoeffer, one of the greatest theologians of the 20th century, was martyred by the Nazi’s during WW2. While in a concentration camp, he wrote a hymn. One stanza says this, “And when this cup You give is filled to brimming with bitter suffering, hard to understand, we take it thankfully and without trembling, out of so good and beloved hand.” Bonhoeffer expresses a truth that every man or woman of faith has had to learn. Every single trial, affliction, loss, or pain that we experience in the kind and gracious providence of God is an investment in our lives to bear fruit in our service to Him. It is the example of Christ. Costliness and fruitfulness go hand in hand in God’s kingdom work. This week we find David again in a tight spot. He and his men have lost everything. They are experiencing deep pain and frustration yet God is at work. God is working to shape David. He is making an investment in David’s life that will make him even more fruitful in his service as king. In fact, the fruitfulness of his suffering continues in service to us today. What a wonderful truth. I pray this week as we turn our attention to God’s Word we could see that in the midst of our pain and affliction how God is investing something special in us that will bear fruit in our service to Him. And beyond this, at the end of chapter 30, we get a glimpse of God’s great and final victory. Don’t miss out on worshiping with us this weekend as we look to the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our afflictions.
