Pastor’s Pen
By Dr. Robin Brumfield
Life is full of ups and downs. We praise God during the good times, but often question God when the trials and tribulations come. We have to remember that the school of hard knocks is required for us to grow in the Lord. As much as we hate to see trials come around, they are not only helpful but necessary for us to grow in Christ as maturing Christians.
Our best appears when we go through tests. “People are a lot like tea bags: they don’t know their own strength until they get in hot water” (Farmer’s Almanac). Our strengths definitely come out when difficulties in our lives rise. Those tests that come our way are a blessing, not a curse. We just need to realize they are necessary.
We should not think that something odd is happening when difficulties come our way. In fact, we need to anticipate hard times coming our way. Scripture reaffirms that fact: “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you” (1 Peter 4:12). In other words, do not think it is uncommon but think it is common that the fiery darts of life pierce our bodies. It is to be expected.
No matter what your circumstances, either good or bad, fiery trials are either here now or in our future. Get prepared and fight them in the power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let Him fight the battle for us. All we need to do is submit to His Lordship in our lives.
So the next time you find yourself in hot water, remember that what has attacked you is not some foreign trial but something that should be expected. Surrender that trial to the Lord Jesus!!!
