When we’re

being pounded by

wave

after unrelenting

wave,

it’s impossible to think

much less fathom

God’s plan …

But later

when a wandering soul finds us

at the edge of ocean,

rough edges polished

into smooth stone

peace,

warmed by the sun –

a miracle

washed ashore

from the depths …

we can begin to realize

how expertly

we’ve been crafted

by Divine Hands

into the grace

we’ve always wanted

to become,

placed exactly

where we’re meant to be.

Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good of those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

Sometimes, the trials of life can feel relentless – like one struggle after another after another after another. When we’re going through times like that, it can be hard to see God’s hand at work in our lives. We may wonder: why doesn’t He just intervene and make things easier already?

But the truth is: Our Heavenly Father is always working behind the scenes, making good for those who love Him. Sometimes He works in the depths of our souls in ways that are imperceptible to us until much later, when we’re looking back and see how we’ve grown by staying faithful through our struggles. He’s the master potter, always shaping and forming us into beautiful works of art, purifying our hearts, motives and intentions; refining us with the power of His Love.

Through suffering, we can grow in compassion, kindness, wisdom and discernment. We can let go of attachments to superficial things and gain perspective on what’s really important in life.

Jesus said “In this world you will have trouble. Take heart, I have overcome the world.” If life is pummeling you with challenges right now, I hope you can stay centered in your heart and faith to cultivate patience until the day you realize the perfect way God has utilized these trials and tribulations to prepare you for greater blessings.

Have you experienced personal spiritual growth and transformation through the trials of your life? Are you going through a trial right now that is testing your belief in God? Comment below, and I’ll be delighted to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Lord, help us to love you with all of our hearts and follow the calling you have placed on our lives through all the trials and tribulations we go through. Give us the grace to persevere in faith until the day we can finally realize the blessings you have been planning for us all along.

written by nicky gant for http://www.uniteinprayer.org 2/7/2020