Have you ever thought of trials as a gift from God? I know, it sounds a bit off. How could God give us trials and sufferings as gifts of his grace? But the Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 1:29, “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ… to suffer for him” (Emphasis mine). Literally, Paul says that God has freely given us favor—a gift of grace—in allowing us to experience trials and sufferings.
At first, this truth might not make sense to us. But when we remember (And trust) that God absolutely knows what’s best for us, it makes complete sense. Trials, in God’s sometimes-mysterious wisdom, grow us, strengthen and confirm our faith, and mold us more into the likeness of Christ. From this perspective, trials and sufferings are definitely a gracious gift from God.
This week, try seeing your troubling circumstances as part of God’s grace in your life. This small shift in perspective might be just what you need to keep persevering and clinging to your Savior.
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