windingpath2

This morning I was thanking God for the trials in my life.

Yes,  you read that correctly.

I told Him I was grateful for the painful things I have gone through.    Why?  Because I don’t know who I would be today if I hadn’t been pressed on all sides.

Has God used people like holy sand paper to rub off my sharp edges?   Perhaps.   Can you see that happening in your own life?

Romans 5:1-5
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

How blessed are we that Daddy God uses our pain and tribulation?  When we are weak and pressing into the mountain that tries to block us, we develop character and character — HOPE.    NOTHING is wasted!

windingpathWhen I pondered these things in my heart, I suddenly saw a winding path.    The path continued further than the eye could see and it represented life.

Sometimes the path of life takes us through fields of flowers where life feels like a spring day.   Sometimes the path leads us to water that refreshes our souls.   Sometimes the path goes up steep hills and rocky – dry areas.   The path leads to some shady areas with lush grass where we can rest.    Some areas along the path are dry and cracked — sun parched.

No matter where the path of life has lead me, God has never left me or forsaken me.

Hebrews 13:5b
For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

I have a grateful heart for all that God has done in my life.

Did God give you a spouse or perhaps a good friend who is the exact opposite of you?   He did in my life.   My dear husband is wired differently than God wired me.   We are two opposites who make ONE whole.  We need each other and if we surrender to the Lord and lay down our own plans, God can make something beautiful with us.

Are you grateful for the person in your life who adds the spice to your pathway?   I didn’t say the spice was always the flavor you desire at the moment, but it might be exactly what God is going to use to keep you pressing onward.

Just some thoughts to ponder today.

Are you pressing onward and developing character?  Hope?

Thank you for visiting me!