Standing Firm
- Lucy Allen
- Feb 21, 2022
- 2 min read
Trials and testing….who has not experienced them? From minor to major, we will all have trials and tests in this life; however, we have a promise. In John 16:33 we read this, “In the world you will have distress. But be encouraged! I have conquered the world (CEB) I’ll go as far to say we’re to have joy in our trials. James 1:2 tells us, “Brothers and sisters, think of the various tests you encounter as occasions for joy.”(CEB) Joy?? Yes, joy as a supernatural delight in the person and purposes of God.
In the past almost 2 years, we have had trials and at times it has been hard to see that joy. I have needed reminders of how to have joy in the worrisome times. Some days it has been hard to see what Paul writes to the Romans in Romans 8:28, “We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those called according to His purpose.” (CEB) This statement from The Believer’s Bible Commentary gives this explanation, “whatever God permits to come into our lives is designed to conform us to the image of His Son.” As I read this morning in my devotional, God is in the here and now performing His redemptive work on His children! God tied my personal devotion to this devotion He had already planted in my head!
We have a part to play in rising above our trials and tests as well. God does expect us to trust and stand firm in our faith in Him during these times. Some days there were no answers but I knew He was in control and we had to put our trust in that fact and just let Him hold it.
Today, I can see God’s hand in each situation, how He guided and directed; how He put people in places to work things out for good. I believe as long as we are living in this old world we will have these trials and tests from time to time.
As I close today’s devotion with that thought, I pray the following verse from James 1:12 brings you renewed hope and joy in the midst of any trial or test you may be facing.
“Those who stand firm during testing are blessed. They are tried and true. They will receive the life God has promised to those who love Him as their reward.”(CEB)
Good devotion. We all need a boost to keep us going. You just reminded us of that. Good devotion, thank you!
Great devotion Lucy!
God placed your devotional in the path of major trials in my life today, Lucy! Physical, emotional and a living situation has brought me to my knees in prayer daily....some days I see no end in sight. Other days I feel defeated, but most days I feel peaceful. You reminded me that maybe God is not ready for "the end" and to stay strong because only He knows what plans He has for me. Thank you Lucy! I look forward to your insight and devotion to all of us.
Right time and right place, good job. May God’s Blessings continue to follow you. Have a great day, Amen
Great devotion Lucy. Excellent reminders for the times we are in.