If you never felt pain, how would you know I'm a healer?
If you never experienced difficulty, how would you know I'm a deliverer?
If you never endured a trial, how could you be one who overcomes?
If you never felt sadness, how would you know I'm a comforter?
If you never made a mistake, how would you know I'm forgiving?
If you never were in trouble, how would you know I came to your rescue?
If you never were broken, how would you know I can make you whole?
If you never had a problem, how would you know I can solve them?
If you never had any suffering, how would you know what I went through?
If you never went through the fire, how would you become pure?
If I gave you all things, how would you appreciate them?
If I never corrected you, how would you know I love you?
If you had all power, how would you learn to depend on Me?
If your life was perfect, what would you need Me for?
Let me be clear: This poem is not found in the Bible, although the sentiment it conveys is worthwhile to ponder.
Christians need to be careful not to expect Heaven while here on Earth. Those who are in Christ can be richly blessed by God in the flesh and will still have dark days in this realm. While we are in the flesh, there will be pain, suffering, and sadness to cope with. While we are in the flesh, there will be trials, difficulties, and problems to overcome. While we are in the flesh, there will be mistakes and experiences that humble us, for we are neither sinless nor all-powerful.
We know that God loves us and desires that none perish but that all come to a knowledge of the truth and to repentance (cf. I Tim. 2:4; II Pet. 3:9). Let us seek Him diligently and trust Him in all things!
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones" (Prov. 3:5-8).