Life’s Trials
By, Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12:5-11
Scripture Quote: “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfected of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.”
Hebrews 12:2-4
It is only an ever growing trust in and love for God that can enable a person to endure the temptations of life and remain content without complaint. Every one of us experiences various types of trials, and because of that, we are all candidates to either stand or fall.
The prize for enduring and overcoming our temptations will be the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to us. Our holy God desires to build our character and strength against evil temptations. However, He will always deliver us from the punishment of hell. We are to trust God for all our provision and remain steadfast in our love for Him. Our heavenly Father has sent us trials so that we may grow. He has used seemingly harsh trials to teach us to abandon the easy path and cling to truth, wisdom and justice. He is constantly refining those traits in us.
Today’s meditation: Our trials are temporary and endurable.
Memory Verse: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12 (NIV)