"It Does Hurt!" (1 Peter 1:6-7)

Recently, I had one of my dermatology residents freeze several flat warts on my hands. This very common procedure utilizes a precisely directed thin stream of liquid nitrogen, directed on the lesional skin. The effect is instantaneous, permanent, and painful! It was only a few seconds per wart but I complained like a spoiled child. After the procedure, I queried the other residents if they have ever undergone this procedure and if they thought it was painful. Several of them nodded and laughed. “Yes, it does hurt, doesn’t it?”

Yes it does!

It is a simple treatment, one that is prescribed thousands of times a day, throughout all dermatology offices. I have recommended it many times without giving a thought to the potential discomfort. I only knew the treatment was fast, inexpensive, and effective. After having the procedure done on myself, I was willing to at least reconsider my nonchalant attitude. Is the short term pain worth the long term gain. In this case, yes.

We hear the phrase, “No pain, no gain.” We balance the short term pain with the long term benefits. Sometimes, God deals with us in the same manner.

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith —more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire —may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 1:6-7 (ESV)

Trials often cause us pain. Can I accept God’s promises that He is using these short term trials for long term gains in my life? Do I trust God that He is working through all circumstances in my life and He is control? Or do I doubt God’s sovereignty over all of Creation? Who is more trustworthy? Me or God?

It does hurt! But if God is using the pain to mold me into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ, it is more precious than gold!

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.