Wouldn’t it be nice if everything in our lives was “roses and rainbows”? Easy street and beautiful to view? What if we didn’t have a concern or worry in the world? That everyday was easy…with no struggle whatsoever. We all had millions; lived in lavish homes and everything was smooth sailing…food on the table and not a single worry, no cringing of where the next paycheck was coming….nothing.
For some people this year has a been a tough year. I’ll be the first to tell you it has for me. High inflation. Everything costs more. How are we paying for all those same things that cost 3 times less just 3 years ago? Some people have had loss of jobs or less income, loss of family members or have been stricken with cancer this year. Death, sickness, less money. The pressure is stacking up.
We say roses and rainbows but have you ever really pondered and thought of that saying? Because we live in a fallen world the roses now have thorns. Most people would argue they’re the most beautiful flower on earth but in order to bloom and become beautiful they grow thorns on the stems. Let’s move on to the Rainbows. I’ll be the first to tell you I’ve seen the most beautiful and stunning colorful rainbows in my life. But how do we get rainbows? Usually after a terrific storm.
Life is not always roses and rainbows. We endure challenges…sometimes super tough ones. Complete Heart break, sickness, gut wrenching cancer, death, loss, brokenness, not knowing where another paycheck is coming from. Life is tough and almost impossible to get through situations at times. But through these pains and sorrows, we encounter grit, perseverance, determination, courage, faith, new life and love. New perspectives and New ideas are born. New opportunities are presented; if life was easy always, we would not experience New strength, New power, New confidence. Growth happens in our souls.
So as much as it hurts to endure tough times, I thank the Lord for them. He uses everything for good. It reminds me of the potter molding and shaping clay into something useful and pretty. The clay must first endure immense heat before turning into a beautiful piece.
So whatever you’re going through, keep going. Climb the mountain, endure the storm, face the heat. Out of it comes Success, Faith, Growth, Greatness.
Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
I Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
James 1:12 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.
Luke 8:24-25 The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”
He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm.25 “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples.
In fear and amazement they asked one another, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.”