Isaiah 40:29-31 NIV: 29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
In recent situations I've faced there have been trials that I could have pushed through and endured, or chose to give up and move away. At my job I had a shift to work, and there was not a support. I didn't like the idea of staying longer than I was expected to, and have to cover someone else's shift. I was willing to leave and walk out because it seemed unfair and I did not have time for that. Instead, I was reminded that even through trials I choose how I react to them.
I chose to call my manager-- and got no response. Eventually, I made up in my mind to just tough it out, and work my part of the shift. So I waited and I said a quick prayer. I was reminded of how good God is and how He has looked after me in the past, so I knew He would carry me through this shift. Low and behold, no more than five minutes later my support came. He apologized and explained why he was late. He was so forthcoming he offered to cover both of our shifts and I was able to leave early 🙌🏽.
If I had given up and walked out I could have left a bigger mess for someone else to deal with. On the other hand, I could have faced unnecessary consequences for being irrational. This is a cheesy example, but I feel like that's how God measures our character. In trials and through tests-- does God see us as someone that is quick to give up and lose faith in the process? Instead, He wants to see our strength, faith, and endurance. I could have left that night feeling defeated. If I did, how would that translate towards my trust in God? How would that reflect on my character? What does that say about my maturity in that situation?
God prepares us before He blesses us. He equips us before He expects us to perform. He rears us before He sends us out to complete His tasks. Through the tests and trials of life don't give up. Rather, praise God because it's all for our betterment and benefit. What seems bad now could potentially be a blessing later. I think of James when he said, "2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" ( James 1:2-4 NIV). Consider, if Jesus gave up and did not go to the cross where would we be today? In closing, through all situations trust God. If you're willing to go the extra mile-- He'll carry you through the rest of the way.
(Scriptures for reference: James 1:2-4~ Galatians 6:9~ James 1:12)
Comments