It stands to reason, that before a vessel can be filled, it must be emptied.
God, in His grace, provides for our emptying as well as our filling.
James 1:2 NIV
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when ever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Ephesians 2:10 NIV
For we are Gods workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works.
If your medium be humanity
flesh and blood and souls of men
And your art
peace, faith, hope, patience,
love, redemption
Your tools may well be
pain and suffering and sorrow
To paint light with dark strokes
Is a mystery indeed
Romans 8:28 – 29 NIV
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
For those God foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His son, that He might be the first born among many brothers and sisters.
James 1:12 NIV
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.
“Hold on – don’t let go – yeah – you know the day gonna come”
Lyrics
Everyone knows hunger,
everyone knows pain
And every empty silence,
beckons sweet refrain
There’s the invitation,
the something you don’t have
A Holy incarnation coming like,
a healing salve
I believe
And turning, turning, turning,
through water blood and fire
That visits, wounds, and heals us,
satisfactions desire
And all in common,
and all taking part
In hopes happy ending,
and wisdoms hidden start
I believe, that’s what I believe
Hold on, don’t let go, yeah you know the day gonna come
Hold on, don’t let go, yeah