The Blessing of Trials

"Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about the throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Revelation 2:10)

Trials are something that every single person endures. I have had my share of them too. I watched my parents go through a divorce after twenty years of marriage. I have had my heart broken. I have had trials in ministry. I have experienced loneliness. There are two things that have been common to every trial I have endured. One is that it was temporary, the second is that each one has drawn me closer to God. That may not have been true in the moment, but as I think about each one, I realize that God used those trials to strengthen my relationship with Him. We also know that new trials will come. The thing I have learned is that I do not need to fear future trials. God allows suffering at times to test us. He tests our faith and our loyalty to Him. But we also have the promise that if we remain faithful, we will receive rewards in the Heavenly Kingdom.

I arrived back to the ranch today after almost eight weeks at the Bridge House in the city. During that time, I faced many trials, both large and small. Looking back, I can see how God gave me the grace to handle each situation as it arose. In the end, everything worked out ok, and I gained a little more life experience. I am thrilled to be back at the ranch. However, I am grateful for the experiences the Lord gave me while in the city.

Looking forward to the upcoming year, I already know it has the potential to be a very difficult year. However, I am not afraid to face it. I know now that as each trial comes, God will continue to give me the grace I need to endure. I also know that I do not have to fear, for the trials will be temporary. But mostly, I will rejoice, for I know that God will use each and every trial to grow and mature my faith, drawing me closer to Him still. For that, I will give Him honor and praise.