Sometimes trials can be so difficult. We ask God, "Why do I have to go through this? Why won't you just deliver me?" Although He derives no pleasure from seeing you suffer, He still allows you to go through difficult tests and storms. Why?
He's toughening you up. He's teaching you powerful lessons that will sustain you in the future. You see, what you're enduring today will give you more endurance for tomorrow. Your faith will be stronger, your skin will be thicker, your wisdom will be greater.
Hence, when you don't understand the reason behind your struggle just know that God is preparing you. He's developing your gifts, talents, and abilities. He's broadening your understanding of how to navigate your way through life.
And even though we would rather not suffer through difficult circumstances, we have to, in order to grow. Always remember, God is the consummate teacher. There's always a lesson hidden in your struggle. He wishes to reveal something deeper than you're currently capable of seeing.
It's up to you to remain tenacious. Persevere through it. Instead of asking God to mitigate the intensity of the trial, push through it. Refuse to give up. Know that there's victory waiting on the other side of trouble.
Of course, growing pains can feel miserable. The pruning process is unpleasant, but it won't kill you. Jesus said, "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit" (John 15:1-2).
If you're being pruned, it's because you're producing positive fruit in your life, and God wants to increase your productivity. How does He accomplish this?
Essentially, pruning involves cutting off superfluous branches. This is done to make a tree bear better fruit, grow higher or to give the tree a more handsome appearance. This is precisely what God is doing in our lives.
Through our struggles, He molds, shapes, and refines us. He gets us prepared to effectively fulfill our ultimate purpose in the earth.
Does the pruning hurt? You bet it does. But is it good for us? Absolutely!
So don't fret as God transitions you from where you are to your next level of productivity. The road may be rocky, but if you stay the course, you'll reach your desired destination.
Until next time... may you be empowered to prosper!
Dianna Hobbs
