We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (ESV)
When life throws you a curve ball, we may wish for God to immediately solve the problems for us and clear all the obstacles. Just as the disciples asked Jesus to save them when they were caught in a storm, we call out to God and hope He can calm the winds and waves for us. Sometimes He does, sometimes He makes us wait.
A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor. Tough times and obstacles in life build Christian character and our faith in God. Jim Rohn once said, "Don't wish it was easier, wish you were better. Don't wish for less problems, wish for more skills. Don't wish for less challenges, wish for more wisdom. The major value in life is not what you get. The major value in life is what you become. Success is not to be pursued; it is to be attracted by the person you become."
We would never grow if life were always smooth. God, use our trials to shape us into someone who will not be easily defeated by challenges and shaken by circumstances, and someone who can have peace even when walking through the darkest valley. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Jacqueline Wong
