trials in disguise.

 


when we think of blessings, there are many. that's undeniable. we have families that love us, a place to call home, warm food set on the table, etc. we are blessed everyday.
but what about those things that when we think about, we flinch a little?

you know, like the times when your heart has been broken, or when bills outweighed the funds, or when a sickness just seemed to get worse.

i'm sure you've had days, weeks, or months where everything seemed upside down. where answers were delayed, and where nothing seemed right.
i had moments of that too this year. i'm still going through certain moments like that. even when it seemed as though the sun was beginning to shine through completely and the storm clouds were finally making their departure.
but one thing i was reminded of last week by my sister, is that

anything that makes me run to God and need His presence is a blessing.
amen? yes.

there is no other blessing as precious as being able to run to God's arms and be refuged by Him.

so let's think here for a moment:

when our church plant went through pretty rough moments this year financially and made us need God and come to Him humbly in prayer, that was a blessing.

when there were moments in my marriage that strained the relationship and made me run to God in prayer surrendering everything again, that was a blessing.

when our car gave us a pretty expensive surprise thus needing the support from the Lord and His provision, that was a blessing.

when there are certain things that still need to be fixed and my tears are poured out, broken in front of the Lord, that is a blessing.

so, when i really think about the blessings that i'm most thankful for, i have to say it was the trials of this year. they've been tough and many tears have been shed.
it makes me think of that song by Laura Story:

'what if your blessings come through raindrops,
what if your healing comes through tears...
what if the trials of this life, are your blessings in disguise.'

but i'm thakful for them, simply because they not only ground me, but show me that God in His everlasting mercy takes them upon His shoulders and gives me peace.

what blessings are you most thankful for?

 
 
linking up with:
 
{thankful thursdays}
 

6 comments:

Amy said...

Love this post more than I could say.

And love you that much too.

Anonymous said...

i love this and i also find this so true. the evidence of god's presence and goodness is never more evident than it is in the struggles. i find myself grateful for trials because they grow me so much more than comfortable circumstances ever could.

Susannah said...

It is so hard to think about the hard thing as blessings but it's so true! Those are the areas in life that draw us closer to the Lord!

Miss.AishaLC said...

Love the photos :)

& being able to go to God whenever we need Him really is such an awesome blessing. I always tell Him- Jesus, you are my ultimate blessing- because I am just so thankful for who He is! He is so amazing! :)

xoxo,
-A

Unknown said...

This is beautiufl and so truthful.

God is good, even in the midst of trials. His faithfulness, love, and strength are the greatest comfort and drive.

s h e l i a said...

thank you for writing this! it really helped put to word the thoughts and feelings i've been having about my own life.