We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Rom. 5:3-5 (NLT)
Dear heavenly Father, multiple difficulties + waiting is an equation that often results in wrong thinking + poor choices. My heart goes out today to those of us whose trials seem to be increasing, in both frequency and intensity. When this happens, it’s hard not to conclude either something is wrong with us—for which it’s now “cosmic payback time”; or something is wrong with you—you’re not as merciful and mighty as we thought.
Thus, these words from Paul come as mind-balm and heart-salve. Just when we start heading into a downward cycle of either self-contempt or heavenward railing, you send your Word, granting us much needed perspective. Thank you, Father, thank you. Though you don’t promise to explain the reasons for extended seasons of trials, you do promise us a hope that will not disappoint us + a greater experience of your love.
Father, based on the promises of this Scripture, pour copious amounts of your love into our hearts. By your Holy Spirit, grant us a supernatural sense of your hand and heart being at work in every exigency, kerfuffle, and disappointment. Instead of feeling abandoned, free us to rest in our adoption. Turn our cries of “Why me, Lord?” into “Abba, Father.”
I’m enough of a rescuer and fixer, Father, that if you gave me a magic wand, I’d simply try to relieve pain and change circumstances. But you’re promising something much better than relief; you’ve promised yourself. Knowing you is much sweeter than being in control—we say by faith. May it be, Lord, may it be. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ mercy-full and grace-full name.
