“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.” – James 1:12
How do you feel when you face trials and tribulations?
When was the last time you said,
“Whoo hoo! Looks like I’m going to be facing some trials today!!”
or
“Man, that was hard, but I can’t wait for the next time I struggle through life!”
None of us like going through difficult times, but even though they are…well…difficult, we are blessed to know that we do not face them alone and they are not the last word.
In Christ, we have the promise not only of eternal life with God but an abundant life here on earth. That abundant life doesn’t mean there won’t be struggles. In fact, those struggles are part of the abundant life. They are for our good.
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” – Romans 5:3-5
In the midst of those struggles, God is with us.
He is strengthening us, drawing us to Him, helping us to persevere and keep the faith, and He is causing us to grow in the fruit of the Spirit.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Most importantly, we can know that no matter how difficult it gets, we know that Christ has the ultimate victory.
What a great blessing!!
Heavenly Father,
There are times in life that are very hard. Please be with me in those times and at all times. Strengthen me and help me to look to You and trust that You will provide what I need when I need it. Forgive me for those times when I didn’t trust You were there for me.
Amen
In Christ’s Service,
Pastor Kurt
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