Trials Bring Us Closer to God

"Trouble is one of God's great servants because it reminds us how much we continually need the Lord." - Jim Cymbala

Can you think of anyone who has never experienced troubles in their life? I know that I can't! We all pass through trials of one type or another. Some may be smaller than others, or last longer than others; some may even encounter trials more frequently than others.

One thing is certain: trials are natural to us. And no matter what kind of trial we undergo, it is a very personal matter to us. Maybe that's why so many look up to the sky, raise their arm in anger and frustration, and shake their fist, asking, "Why me, Lord?"

You are correct in assuming it is personal between God and you...because it is! But, not in the way you think. First, just because you've been thrown a curve ball in life doesn't mean that God has labeled you an evil, wicked person. It's not like that at all.

In addition, it doesn't mean that God is irritated, or annoyed with you over something. It's quite the opposite, actually. God loves each of us as any loving and caring parent would love their child. And, like any such parent, they correct their child if they are going in a different or undesirable direction (Psalm 119:67).

We prune fruit trees in our yards to promote good growth and fruit (at least we should). This is similar to what God does to his children when he sends troubles to them. I know it may sound mean, especially when this happens to someone who is doing pretty good, but it is necessary to promote good spiritual growth and results (Genesis 42:21).

You see, we all sin. These troubles are punishments for our sin. We can think of our trials as reminders of our sins. A wayward child who displays unacceptable behavior, needs correction and redirection. They need to be shown the error of their ways. Not to be mean or malicious, but because you love them so, and want only the best for them (Hosea 2:6).

Obviously, you and I need a lot of work to get to the point where God would like us to be. So, we will endure many trials. However, it's important that we learn something from every trial we face. I can't list everything I can think of here, but let me share some possible explanations for our trials.

God wants to steer us to repentance. We all veer off the road every now and then with sin. God helps direct us back. God wants to keep us from sin. Nothing like a barrier to keep us out of sin. God wants to humble us. We are proud, vain creatures. When things are going right, we tend to get cocky. We need a good dose of humility now and then.

God wants to make us more holy. Sin causes a dirty, build-up on our soul. Trials scrub it away, renewing our inner selves. God wants to separate us from the world. Even the best of us can get too attached to worldly possessions and ways. Trials serve to remind us where our hearts should really be.

Hopefully, you can see that God has a goal for sending trials our way. His intentions are always good, though at the time it may not seem so to you or I. Our trials, or afflictions are necessary to bring about the harvest of God's glory. In the end, we are all better off for meeting them.

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Romans 8:28; 1 John 4:18; 2 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 12:6

Prayer: Dear Jesus, You send trials our way not in anger, but to show us the errors of ways and to learn that there are no shortcuts to You. May I always keep this thought in my heart. Amen

May God bless you all!

Kasey