During AFM training this summer, I heard a story of a woman who was severely burned. Her arm was covered with scar tissue, and she could not lift it. She was determined to regain full mobility, so she went to see a physical therapist. Each exercise caused her excruciating pain as it stretched and tore the scar tissue, but she continued through the months with such determination that eventually her arm had full range of motion again.
When I first heard this story, I wondered: would I have settled for a life of limited arm motion, or would I have pushed through the agonizing pain to gain full mobility? In spiritual matters, do I seek to endure or settle because of the pain involved? Many times God, my heavenly Physical Therapist, wants to stretch me so I can live a more abundant life, and yet I choose to live with seared flesh instead of allowing Him to move me so the scars are torn and I gain freedom. Hebrews 12:5-7 reminds me that chastening of my flesh and spiritual scourging of my soul are necessary for God to give me the peaceable fruit of righteousness (verse 11).
Then I look at the life of Jesus and all He went through. He endured such agony so that I might be saved. What an amazing Savior! I want His faith and endurance so I can go forward with God no matter what. I want others to experience it, too, and know what Jesus has endured for them.
Please pray that more monthly donors will join our team so we can go and share Jesus overseas.

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