Listen:
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)
Reflect:
It’s easy to love when things go smoothly and the way we think they should go. It’s easy to love and believe promises when we are relaxed with a cup of coffee, enjoying a beautiful morning after a good night sleep; but what happens when things are hard and they keep getting harder no matter how good we do our job. What does our love look like when things go hard? Because what is on trial all the time is not our resilience, our ability, our patience, our faithfulness but our LOVE.
I have been through many trials in my life and I must confess I failed many of them. I prayed so hard, but in the end, decided that God is good but He is busy with other people and my troubles were too insignificant for HIM, so I did it my way.
The good news is trials keep coming and I will have more opportunities to trust HIM and love HIM. The TRIALS will be over when we leave earth, until then we have a chance to love HIM and believe Him with small and big trials. By enduring trials with patience and faith, we demonstrate our love for God and our commitment to following His will. By remaining steadfast in our faith and trusting in God’s plan, we can overcome any obstacle and receive the ultimate reward of eternal life in His kingdom.
Prayer of Response:
“Lord, thank you so much for not giving up on me and for allowing trials in my life to train my love and my obedience to you and YOUR perfect will. Thank you for loving me first and for the wonderful reward waiting for me at the end of this trial on earth, a life in your loving and gentle presence. I praise you, in Jesus name. Amen!
Questions to Ponder:
- How can we find joy in the midst of trials, knowing that they are producing perseverance and character in us?
- How can we stay steadfast in our faith during difficult times?
—Submitted by: Mihaela Cazacu
My name is Mihaela and I am from Romania. I have 4 children, 3 girls and a boy and I absolutely love being a mom. I was born orthodox but met Jesus for the first time when I was 15. Although I did not pass many of the tests, I am here today washed and ready for new ones. I love being a part of this amazing group; I treasure each one of you.
Photo taken by Mihaela Cazacu