During the hard places, times, and spots, we may shrink back, crawl into a corner, and hide. Or we might seek something, someone, or somewhere with a bit more cushion. Challenges, trials, and difficulties come to us all, but God speaks through trials.
God often teaches me through nature (plants, ants, birds, sunshine, clouds, rain, snow). One spring morning, He delivered a ginormous package of encouragement to my soul as I completed my praise and prayer walk. In our driveway was the most beautiful flowering plant that made its way out of the cracks of the cement. This was a difficult place to come out from, yet there it was. It was vibrant and alive in all its splendor—a true showstopper.
Jesus warned us about difficult times. His Word reminds us that we will have trouble—not maybe, but definitely. But with this fact comes a greater truth. God promised to always be with us and never to leave us alone.
The flower I observed lifted its arms and head to the Creator, who had carefully fashioned and intentionally planned it. Through our trials, God declares, “There is more.” He has another side that is better, bigger, and brighter. The greater one is deep within us, and nothing can block or stop Him.
With God’s powerful life in you, He can bring you out and through any trial. Amazing and marvelous are the works of His hands. Know them well. Whatever your cement place is, you can see God there. God speaks through trials.
Penelope White is a wife, mother of two young adult sons, and G’ma. She is also a Christian educator, speaker, church school curriculum writer/teacher, workshop facilitator, middle school counselor, mentor for first-year teachers, tutor, and home Bible study/prayer meeting host. Her experience in working with children spans more than four decades in churches, communities, and schools. Additionally, she has served as a volunteer in a neighborhood nursing care facility, a center for the homeless, and countless schools.