Ultimate Testing

Have you ever felt like you have had the same trial over and over again? This year I felt like I have been put through the furnace multiple times and somehow I am still not learning what God has to teach me. Finally, one morning it came to me like the sunshine burning my eyes: The Lord has been teaching me patience.

James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have [its] perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

I read this verse and I think in my head Yes Lord! But really it is much harder said than done. JOY in the midst of trial? Not only that but also be joyful because you are in trial? Whoa! That is a lesson to be learned. I want the end result but I am not sure about the testing. It hurts!

All of this testing is rooted in my body falling apart. At least feeling like it is at age 24. At one time or another this year I have injured both shoulders, my back, been in boot for a swollen toe joint, and now been diagnosed with tendonitis in my right wrist. It is actually pretty comical when I think about it but at the same time the question that arises is, Lord what lesson am I missing?

I am learning that I have to rely on others and STOP though I feel weak. The truth is, I am weak! I am weak in faith, in physical strength, and in spirit. I have needed more encouragement in the last few days and have received it from those around me which I am so thankful for. My boss encouraged me to take a day off yesterday because I am so tempted to use my wrist but it won't heal without rest. And so rest I am doing! I am resting on the Word of the Lord.


Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:26-28