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Bethesda Baptist Church
Dr. Juanita A. W. Harrison, Senior Pastor
Grace and Glory
Triumphantly Doing The Father's Will
The Pastor's Pen
As I write this Pastor’s Pen, I stand on the threshold of another birthday, reflecting on the journey God has graciously allowed me to walk. In the tapestry of my life, the vibrant threads of God’s goodness are interwoven with the darker strands of trials and suffering. Yet, it is within these very trials that I have most vividly experienced His grace and witnessed His glory.
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The Apostle Paul reminds us that God’s grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). How true this has been in my own life. When I faced the pain of losing loved ones, God’s comforting presence upheld me. In moments of deep hurt and disappointment, especially when wounded while serving in ministry, His encouragement renewed my strength. Time and time again, I was reminded of God’s promises, empowering me to extend that same comfort to others. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
God’s goodness has sustained me through seasons of illness, heartache, and uncertainty. Each hardship was not devoid of purpose but was instead a divine opportunity for growth and perseverance. I have learned over time to consider it pure joy when I face trials, knowing that the testing of my faith produces perseverance (James 1:2-4). This perseverance has refined my character and drew me closer to God, helping me to become more and more like Christ.
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The glory of God becomes evident when we witness His transformative power in our suffering. Just as gold is refined by fire, believers are sanctified through trials. Our testimonies become beacons of hope, illuminating the faithfulness of God to others. Our suffering produces perseverance, perseverance builds character, and character fosters hope-a hope that will never put us to shame (Romans 5:3-5).
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Beloved, if you find yourself in the mist of trials, take heart. The grace that has carried me will carry you. God’s glory will shine through your weakness, and His faithfulness will sustain you. Lean into God’s presence, remembering what He has spoken, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).
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May your trials become testimonies of His grace. May His glory be magnified in your perseverance. And may you, like me, look back one day and see how every tear and trial brought you closer to the heart of God.