It’s nothing new –

the troubles I have,

the trials you are experiencing.

The Apostle Paul talks to us about how to respond to these storms in our lives –

“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.

How can I not be crushed and destroyed by the trials and tragedies in my life?

I can persevere because the Spirit of God lives in me, giving me strength, peace and hope.  The Spirit reminds me that this earth is not my home – my forever home is with my loving Father.

This is how the Spirit translates these words in my head as I read them –
I  may have troubles coming at me from all directions but, when I stay close to God, he will not let me be crushed by them.  I don’t always understand why struggles and problems happen to me but I know God is in control and he is a Good Father who is working all things out for my good so I can stand firm on these truths.  Even when Satan hunts me down, God never leaves my side.  I’ve been knocked down by a horrible tragedy but God has given me the strength to get back up.

I say this knowing there are more storms are coming my way.  It’s not a question of ‘if’ they are coming, the question is ‘when’.

Thank you, Father, for teaching me how to respond to trials in my life.