My servant Paul requested to have his thorn removed
But in the strength I provided him, my own grace was proved.
He was faithful as a witness through every trial and test,
But suffered pain and shame because He knew my way was best.
The Son of God gave evidence when He caused the blind to see,
In his blindness, the works of God should manifested be,
To live in darkness all his life through no fault of his own,
And when darkness turned to light - God was glorified - alone.
Again, the scriptures show that the reason Lazarus died
Was for the glory of God, and that His Son be glorified.
The deeds of all my servants are clearly of one accord:
every one sought faithfully to glorify his Lord.
Now, you may never know the reason for the trial you have borne,
Or the sorrow, pain or loved one for whom you've had to mourn.
But you may know that bearing it in the strength that I shall give
Brings life and light to others by the very life you live.
From this moment you may know I am with you every day
Even though some obstacles may appear along the way.
I'll give you grace and strength to take them in your stride
And let the world see me, and through you, your God glorified.
by F.W. (Lucky) Hope
