Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12)
Without these trials, I would claim to know the depth and warmth of Your embrace but would be unable to extend it to others.
Without these trials, I wouldn’t know the extent of Your goodness or appreciate the countless sunny days and smooth seas You’ve given me in the past.
Without these trials, I wouldn’t be able to comfort others, empathize with them or understand the depths of their despair.
Without these trials, I would still think I had all of the answers and will be closed after Your correction in molding.
Without these trials, I wouldn’t be dependent, humble or quiet, nor would Your character be developing and me.
Without these trials, the darkness would never come, and I would never be given the opportunity to shine like the sun.
Without these trials, I would begin to wonder if I was truly Your beloved and would settle for less or lovers.
Without these trials, I wouldn’t grow stronger, have a stiffer back bone or be able to face hardship at all.
Without these trials, I wouldn’t have anything to present to you except a few sticks, some stubble and a handful of hay.
Without these trials, hope with them shallow, faith would seem weak in love with seem impossible.
Without these trials, my faith, which is more precious than gold, would never grow into all You’ve created it to be.
So in the midst, I thank You for these trials.
Dig Deeper:
What have been the major trials of your life? What fruit have they offered? Ponder James 1:12.
Prayer:
Father, I ask for the grace to endure the trials You’ve allowed in my life. I ask for the strength to overcome them and bring glory to Your name. I love You.
