Why God? Why me? Why do hardships come and trials rage around us? We question. We grow discouraged. Yet, aren’t we supposed to be thankful in all things? How is this possible when we can barely keep our head above water?

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7

Trials, Trials Everywhere

This has been a long year filled with trials. Trials for me, trials for those I love. I am not talking about the, “Oh no, I just ate the last Twix bar.” I am talking about open heart surgery, cancer, stroke, pregnancy dilemma’s, death, financial upheaval, marriage struggles, and physical ailments. Things that in and of themselves would be a sufficient trial but added together leads to an overwhelming feeling of heartache. I am trusting God there is a purpose for these pains, even when I can’t see the reason while enduring the heartache.

And yet, despite the pain… there is peace. How?

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

I sit here after semi bed rest, which lasted from 24 weeks gestation till 35 weeks gestation, with weekly progesterone shots to supplement this care package. But I marvel, as I look at my handsome baby boy. Healthy and content, there is an appreciation that lends itself when things are not handed to us on a silver platter, lessons and growth that we may never have learned without these thorns in the flesh. My baby’s name is Jayden, which means, “Heard by God.” God hears our prayers, and although we may not willfully choose to walk through our trial, there is a reason why a loving God does not take them away.

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;  perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Romans 5:3-5

Limited Vision

We have a limited vision of the what and why’s, so it is nearly impossible to wrap our head around the purpose until it is practically behind us, and then we have an “Uh huh” moment of reflection. What are we going through that seems insurmountable? What have we gone through that seemed too much too bear, but now you look back and start to see the purpose, the plan?

Trusting God Through the Pain

So what would happen if we start to trust God during the raging seas of life? During the times we question, still thanking God like Job did, even though outwardly it appeared there was nothing to be thankful for, no reason not to abandon our trust in God and grow angry at Him. Why? Because God is faithful and just; He sees the big picture. He loves us enough to not always give us our way, to give us reasons to search for Him.

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

 Philippians 4:12-13

The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.

Job 1:21

Photo Credit: by justbarbara