The Nature of Trials

1. I guess its the nature of trials: they are difficult. They are not easy. Trials are tests from God designed to measure our spiritual depth and resolve. It seems unrealistic, then, that James would instruct us, "Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for joy." What? Are you crazy?
   
   We can only do so when we understand that everything that happens to us comes through the hand of a loving, faithful, all powerful God who has everything under control. Have you ever heard of God saying, "oops"?  That is what the "all things" of Romans 8:28 is all about. This morning I came across a text in Isaiah 64:4 that truly blessed me: "For since the world began, no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like you, who works for those who wait for him!" (NLT)
   
   Once again I am reminded that our only hope during the tests that come our way lies in the character of God. And that is a pretty good guarantee that all will be well!