Trials will come and they will put us on our knees (which will prove to be exactly where we need to be). These trials may last days, weeks and sometimes years. We will become weary and feel as if we cannot go on. We will see others blessed while we suffer and we may even face these challenges alone (or so we think). When we are physically and emotionally alone we need to be careful. The evil weasel seeks to destroy and he sniffs around the brokenhearted. In fact, during these times he will try to tell us that we are worthless, that we are alone and that we do not make a difference. He will tell us that we have no value but he is a liar!
We cannot accept what Satan tells us. He will try to fill our mind with thoughts of defeat. He loves to come after us when we are down but we have to fight the urge to believe him. He is a defeated foe and we must remind him of this. Scripture tells us to plant our feet in God and run from the devil at every turn.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
Just as we bust loose from one challenge we may even find ourselves walking right in to another and another and another. How depressing! Yes, that is true but there is also a wonderful promise that the Lord gives us during these times. The word tells us that we are made strong in our weakness.
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”- 2 Corinthians 12:9
You see, God does some of His best work when we are at our weakest point. When we have nowhere else to turn we have to depend solely on Him. This is a truly beautiful time and we should have joy in it. Please understand that I am not suggesting that we become happy and giddy to face challenges but we should have joy in knowing that God is with us and will carry us out.
In these times, He is molding and shaping us. He is preparing us, pruning us and making us more like Him. So yes, my friends, have joy in the storm because God loves you!