Strengthened by Trials
I feel like I've been on a roller coaster of trials for the last 10 years - both big ones and little ones. James 1:2,3 says: "Consider it all joy...when you encounter various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." Sadly, I think I'm a long ways from finding "joy" when a trial comes my way. I usually have to go through a process. And for some of the really hard ones - I come to a place of peace eventually, but it's sometimes hard to find the joy the verse speaks of.
I do believe that the trials and testings we go through strengthen our faith, and help us to persevere. The key is keeping in close contact with the Lord. Letting Him sustain and carry us.....especially when trials go on a long time and we have no idea when they'll end.
I want to endure and persevere, but I sure can't do it on my own. I look back now, and I don't know how I survived the 5+ years of Floyd being in the hospital - all while I was battling cancer. God worked overtime in carrying me through all that.
When a new trial comes along, I feel weak - especially as I grow older. I feel like I can't take any more. I feel discouraged. I feel overwhelmed. And I know I have to quickly turn to the Lord. He can be strong in my weakness. He can encourage my heart, and give me extra grace. He can help put things into perspective so that I'm not overwhelmed. He is my everything in the midst of the trial.
On the flip side of all these trials - there are so many beautiful lessons I've learned. There are things I probably couldn't have learned in any other way except by going through a hard trial. The lessons are precious. I'm grateful for each and every one. They are God's compensations in going through the hard times. I treasure them. God has been good to me.
" 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." 2 Corinthians 12:9
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23
"Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16
"And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19
I know there are a few bumps in the road ahead of me. I'm trusting in God's goodness and faithfulness to get me over them. He's helped me in the past - I know He'll help me in the future. He is completely trustworthy!
About the Author: Sally McClung is a member of the All Nations International Leadership Team and is co-founder of All Nations. Her husband, Floyd McClung, was a world-renown missions leader. Floyd went to be with Jesus in 2021. He is the author of 16 books, including the best-selling books, “The Father Heart of God” and “Living on the Devil’s Doorstep.”
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