FRUITFUL IN THE LAND OF SUFFERING

Very slowly she packed her bags for God had let her know
She was moving to a distant land where many dared not go.
Their ending destination was the Land of Suffering,
Not a journey she had hoped for in the dawn of early spring.

Starting through the wilderness, she held tightly to His hand
As He led her past the dangers through a very dismal land.
God then guided through the valley that bore the name "Despair."
Yet, as they passed, she noticed that a sweet fragrance filled the air.

Endless fields with fragrant blossoms, as far as eye could see,
Covered the Land of Suffering, and she said, "How can this be?"
God said, "So often rain will fall upon each stately tree
Producing scented blossoms where sweet fruit will one day be."

"I brought you here so you would know, through suff'ring, fruit you'll bear,
And the fragrance of your presence will bless people everywhere.
And while suffering is not easy, there's a purpose here, you see.
It's preparing you to bear much fruit that'll last eternally."

She cried, "May I be a fragrant tree bearing fruit for You.
I'll accept my suffering with grace, if that's what I must do."
She remained in the garden in the Land of Suffering
Yielding blossoms of rare beauty and became a true blessing."

Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com

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