Love Remains | A 13-Day Devotional By Hillary Scottنموونە

“Thy Will”

Sometimes we go through trials and at the end, we see the meaning, we know why we went through what we did. But often we go through periods of suffering, and the hardest part is that we don’t know the immediate purpose. It feels like our pain was all for naught.

I may never understand
How my broken heart
Is a part of Your plan

In the midst of trial, it’s hard to understand James’ words: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4).

According to these verses, trial brings us joy for two reasons. First, it reminds us of the hope that is to come in Jesus. This world is broken, but Christ is coming again to restore it and to restore us. Second, through trial, we receive steadfastness. Other translations use words like patience, perseverance and endurance—all essentials when it comes to carrying on in this life.

Trials and suffering are opportunities to deepen your personal relationship with God. Our free will and how we choose to respond to hardship has a direct effect on the state of our heart in the midst of our situation. Adversity and pain can harden your heart, or it can lead to a breakthrough that can lead to growth and peace and a deeper assurance of a God that is above all of our circumstances.

I know you see me
I know you hear me, Lord

Jesus did not promise a life free from suffering. He promised the opposite (John 16:33). But he also promised to be with us until the very end (Matt. 28:20). And suffering is something that can bring us closer to him more than anything else. Jesus was the ultimate example of how to endure hardship and that with God’s strength within us we can overcome anything.

If you’re having trouble finding the words to pray today, simply echo the words Jesus spoke to the Father so many years ago: “Thy will be done” (Matt. 6:10).