What you learn from a heart attack

When you listen to people who have had near-death experiences, they’ll tell you things worth remembering: “Life is fragile and precious. I’ve decided to spend less time at work and more with my wife and family. I have a new compassion for people, more understanding and sympathy. I’ve come to know the Lord in a deeper and richer way than I ever thought possible.” Instead of asking, “Why, Lord?” they asked, “What do You want me to learn from this experience?” It’s not that we are slow learners, we’re just quick forgetters. That’s why God told His people, “Remember today what you have learned about the Lord through your experiences with Him.” So instead of asking God to improve your circumstances, ask Him to use your circumstances to improve you. Life is a required course, so you might as well do your best to pass it. God is at work in your life, whether you know it or not. “He takes no pleasure in making life hard, in throwing roadblocks in the way” (Lamentations 3:33 MSG). God does not delight in your sufferings, but He delights in your development. “God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished” (Philippians 1:6 NCV). He will not fail. Why? Because He cannot fail! He will “work in us what is pleasing to him” (Hebrews 13:21 NIV). Every challenge, large or small, is equipping you for the future God has in mind for you.