Murphy’s Law says that anything that can go wrong will go wrong.
Irregular heart rhythms beset my friend Nan. Pneumonia also attacked her lungs. The cost of prescribed antibiotics further squeezed a widow’s tight budget. I commiserated with her current situation. Instead of drowning in despair, Nan voiced complete trust in God. No one wanted afflictions, but we both testified how past trials increased our faith.
The apostle Paul comforted a church in Rome about the positive benefits of problems. He was formerly Saul, the tormentor of Jesus’ followers. But God transformed him into proclaimer Paul. Thereafter, Paul extolled the advantages of the redeemed and justified who had been declared righteous through belief in Christ. The missionary revealed that justification by faith inspires joy even in tough times and generates hope for a better future. Paul urged believers to view trials with a kingdom perspective. His life story and verbal and written witness exhorted the church to steadfast faith in Christ. He encouraged.
Jesus told us we would have trouble in this world but to take heart because He had overcome the world. We must press on. The Lord promises everything will work for good for those He loves and calls according to His purpose.
I’m grateful for my friend’s optimistic outlook and daily texts of encouragement. Clinging to God’s grace strengthens endurance, character, and confidence. Assurance in God’s plan to prosper and not harm us prompts hope in all circumstances. Expect trials. Share wisdom gained with someone going through challenges. Cast all your burdens on the Lord daily. Trust in faith. Think of messes as future messages of faith.
Sharon Simms is a writer.