This is a Test

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.  And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

A faith test is one of those tests I really want to pass but don’t so much like to prepare for. I far prefer floating quietly on my back in the pool on sunny days; to long sleepless nights when recovering from surgery. But on those painful nights when I am crying out to God  and  desperately need His help I find a faith that sees  in darkness the joy of restoration and trust. I hate those storms while they are rocking my boat but I love the assurance I have found. Jesus is my anchor and He will keep me safe to me to the end!

1558014016876_16906084-1.jpg

 

On to Dawn!

Sometimes we say that every cloud has a silver lining and in every trial there is a blessing. But the deeper truth is that our trials lead us desperate dependence on Him. Like the woman grasping for the hem of the robe of Jesus we feel forgotten and abandoned, but God has been with us through everything even when we didn’t know. Not every evil that we have suffered has been by God’s own choice. But in every suffering He has been with us. If we will trust Him all through the night He will lead us on to dawn!