Today's TESTS Are Tomorrow's TESTIMONIES
For years we've gone through disappointments and uncomfortable situations, but better days are coming.
A few months ago, I started a new position in my career. I have to travel much more and I'm much busier than I used to be, but I love my new job.
As I was driving home from work yesterday, I realized something: God often uses uncomfortable situations to strengthen and grow us.
A few years ago I was in a position at work that, while it paid the bills, I didn't enjoy at all. I had a boss who didn't appreciate me, who reported to a boss who disliked me with a passion. There were times I was miserable, and I thought about quitting more than once Even though I was miserable at times, I decided to stick it out.
Looking back, I realized it's the skills and knowledge I learned from that position that gave me the opportunity to get the great job I'm in now. Without that position on my resume, it would've been difficult for me to move forward into my current position.
I'm thankful for the uncomfortable, and even miserable, season that God allowed me to go through, because it allowed me to grow into better things.
Can you relate? For years now we've been going through disappointments and uncomfortable situations, both personally and politically. Many are hurting and are miserable. We've been fighting hard, and chances are you've considered quitting a time or two. Will you keep going?
I believe someday, we will look back on the struggles with a thankful heart because it gives us opportunities to move forward.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." Notice it doesn't say to give thanks FOR everything, but rather to give thanks IN everything. Focused on Christ, we can remain thankful...even in the midst of chaos.
The phrase "He makes all things new!" has been running through my head a _lot_ for the last few weeks, and I think it's a gift to remember as the world seems to darken. Totally agree with you about the tough times and the suffering showing us new things and opening new doors. Really grateful for your encouragement and prayer coordination (on TG); many more blessings to you.
Revelation 21:5
And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.