As we pulled into the parking lot, we were mesmerized by the mammoth beast
lying before us. But there was nothing we could do but mount it.
Enormous logs dotted the mountain’s side. My brother and I were on a two day
backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail. The area we selected was popular
because of the stunning views, but getting to them was challenging. We were
determined, so we hoisted our backpacks and stretched our legs between the
embedded logs. I had to stop for a breather a few times on my way to the top,
but my effort was rewarded by breathtaking and picturesque sites. I soon forgot
the strenuous journey.
Life’s trials aren’t much different in the results they produce. "When troubles
come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when
your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow" (James 1:2-3 NLT).
Considering my troubles as an opportunity for great joy isn’t the easiest of
God’s directives to follow. Nor does James mean I should be happy about the
trials. The joy comes in knowing God’s in control and will in some way bring
some good out of it. With this information in tow, I can stare at my
difficulties through different lenses.
Expecting the difficulties—and expecting a variety of them, also helps me
struggle through. Mine have run the gamut from insignificant to noteworthy. From
repairing a broken down car to trying to repair an entire family. From holding a
sick child to standing by a dying father. Regardless of the difficulty’s nature,
God has strengthened my faith and formed my character through the difficulties.
Life doesn’t really have to be struggled through. When God’s holding our hand,
we can saunter through with confidence and joy.
Prayer: Merciful Lord, may we see life’s difficulties as opportunities for our
faith to be formed and our character to be refined.
Martin Wiles
Hodges,
South Carolina, USA
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