SPIRITUAL VITAMIN DEVOTIONAL

"...because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance."
~James 1:3

When going through tests and trials, do you ever ask yourself, or even dare to ask God, "Why me?" Do you struggle with your faith during difficult times? When my children were little they always wanted to know why this or why that. I would tell them that I always have a reason for what I do. I had a method to my madness! Likewise, God has a good reason for allowing us to go through difficult times. We may not see the end result, or know the reason why, but God does and will use it for a greater purpose.

Trials help us to realize our frailties and weaknesses. It is only then that we are ready to cry out to God for help. He will use our weaknesses (the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of our lives) to draw us closer to Him. We learn to rely completely on God. We learn not to take life for granted and to be more thankful for God's many blessings. As we persevere, we become less critical and judgmental. We learn to be compassionate and are able to encourage others as they go through the testing.

Testing increases your faith and develops perseverance. You realize that if you can make it through what you just went through, you can make it through anything with God on your side! Your faith develops perseverance for the journey ahead. The end result will be "praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed" in you.

Prayer:
Father God, thank you for the trials and tests that lead me to a deeper walk with you. Thank you that in your sovereignty you have a plan and a purpose for every difficult person or circumstance that you allow in my life. Help me to work with you, so that the testing of my faith will develop perseverance for the journey ahead. Thank you that you use the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of my life to reveal my need for you.

Copyright © 2001-2009 Deborah Collins.

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