By Andrea Merrell
The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
Though they stumble, they will never fall,
for the Lord holds them by the hand.
Psalm 37:23-24 NLT
No one enjoys going through hard times, whether physical, financial, emotional, or relational, but the Bible tells us trials and tribulations come with the proverbial territory.
There is an old song that talks about never being promised a rose garden. In the same way, God never promised His children there would be no bumps in the road on our journey through life. What He does promise is to be with us every step of the way. He is always there to lead, guide, direct, protect, and provide. He gives us strength, wisdom, and peace. The light of His Word brightens the path before us.
When we wander off the path or the enemy comes against us, God promises to take what the enemy means for evil and destruction, turn it around, and work it out for our good and His glory. He makes beauty out of ashes and turns mourning into dancing. He truly works all things together for good for those who belong to Him.
When I look back over some of the hard times in my life and the storms I have survived, I can see how God took all those moments and events, redeemed them, and threaded them into my life to make me the person He created me to be. It’s much like the artist who adds shadows and contours to a painting to give it character and depth.
When we trust the Lord and allow Him to mold and shape us, He uses all things—big and small—to build character, integrity, and resilience into us. He doesn’t waste a single thing.
Trials can make us bitter or better. I choose better.
How about you?
(Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net/Ambro.)
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