Apples of Gold - April 26

Because Paul came to understand suffering, he gave testimony that he had come to the place where he could “take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses…” (2 Corinthians:12:10Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
See All...). Was Paul a masochist who took pleasure in discomforts? Never! He understood that the deceitful heart of man (Romans:7:14For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
See All...–25) needed something to keep it under control; he very clearly said, “…for when I am weak, then am I strong” (2 Corinthians:12:10Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
See All...). —TBC

"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience."

—James:1:2My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
See All...–3