Laura Story has a beautiful song called “Blessings,” in which she ponders the possibility that our sorrows and difficulties may in fact be mercies in disguise. In other words, God has made life difficult for a reason – a good reason – a reason that will spare us greater pain down the road.
“We also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Romans 5:3-5 (NASB)
The road to our eternal existence with God is paved with bumps and sharp turns. We should not be inconvenienced by these obstructions because they are the tools God is using to hone our skills and prepare us for what is to come. The life of a believer may be littered with physical illness, financial hardship, and personality conflicts. These hardships are a normal part of the Christian life.
“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4 (NASB)
No one has suffered more than our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul also suffered greatly throughout his life. We all must suffer in some way in order to fully appreciate our awesome reward in our eternal life to come.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Romans 8:18 (NASB)
We can be certain God is working on our behalf in all situations. When life is difficult, it may be hard to understand God’s purpose, but we can be assured we are being molded into the image of Christ so that we may be brought to our final glory.
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NASB)
Stand strong in your faith and praise God for everything that comes your way.
“In the day of prosperity be happy, but in the day of adversity consider— God has made the one as well as the other.” Ecclesiastes 7:14 (NASB)
Click Here to watch the "Blessings" music video
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