And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.

- 1 Peter 5:10

One thing is for sure. In this life, we will have change, difficulties, suffering, and trials. But we can take heart because God is greater than all our struggles. As His children, we are assured that He will make us strong, firm, and steadfast in Him.

When we are hurting, discouragement and doubt can easily pepper our thoughts. But, suffering isn’t always a result of being out of God’s will.

Sometimes the testing and waiting are to stretch and grow us. We are told that our faith's testing produces perseverance and that perseverance matures and completes us so that we are more like Christ.

Other times, God uses our problems to direct us, guide us or even protect us. While we may not understand Him, we know that we can trust Him. He gave His only Son to die for us to give us eternal life. If He was willing to do that for us, then how much must He love us? Today can you trust Him for your current situation?

God, please help me rest in your excellent provision for me. Help me trust you to work all things for my good. Amen.

With Love,
Sherry Shepherd