#188 TRIALS 9-25-26

Trials are a part of life. None of us are promised a journey without difficulty, disappointment, sorrow, or pain. “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Peter reminds us that the trial of our faith is more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire (1 Peter 1:6-7). The trial may not be pleasant, but God can use it to strengthen what is weak, deepen what is shallow, and refine what is impure.

Trials also teach us to depend upon God. When everything is going well, we can be tempted to depend upon ourselves. But trouble has a way of bringing us to our knees. Paul learned this when he pleaded three times for the thorn in his flesh to be removed. The Lord answered, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Sometimes God changes the circumstances, and sometimes He changes us in the circumstances. Either way, His grace is sufficient.

Trials do not last. God does. “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience” (James 1:2-3). The night may be long, but morning is coming. The storm may be fierce, but Christ is still in the boat. We may not understand everything God is doing, but we can trust the God who does. “Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you” (Psalm 55:22). Trials may test our faith, but they cannot separate us from the faithfulness of God.

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Father, when trials come, help us remember that You are with us and that Your grace is sufficient. Give us strength when we are weak, patience when we are tested, and faith when we cannot see the way ahead. Help us trust You in the storm and believe that You are working even when we do not understand. Keep our hearts fixed on Jesus, knowing that our trials are temporary but Your faithfulness endures forever. Amen.

BDD