Priceless Treasures

Do you sometimes wonder why we often sense God's presence with us in extra all-encompassing ways as we go through big, even heart-breaking, trials? Gary and I have had that experience. We've gone through some huge trials in our lives. Maybe not as devastating as some of the trials that others have had to go through. But they have been quite overwhelming to us. And we are finding ourselves in the midst of some trials again, now ... one of these trials often feels like a very heavy burden, while the others are smaller, more insignificant trials that only affect us for brief moments at a time.

This morning I picked up a devotional that a friend gave me awhile ago, and read some words that reminded me, again, to welcome the trials that God allows into our lives. For it is often in the midst of trials that we discover the secret, hidden treasures that God has for us. Treasures that we would not find in any other way. We often look only on the outside of the package, and do not realize all the priceless treasures that can be hidden within very plain, or even rough-looking packaging.

"He that is mastered by Christ is the master of every circumstance. Does the circumstance press hard against you? Do not push it away. It is the Potter's hand. Your mastery will come, not by arresting its progress, but by enduring its discipline, for it is not only shaping you into a vessel of beauty and honor, but it is making your resources available." (From A Gentle Spirit)

Thank You, Lord, for drawing us close to Your heart as we go through difficult times. It is in those times of complete helplessness that we learn how strong and loving You are. You are the prize of limitless worth that our hearts long for. Thank You for the priceless, secret treasures that You have for me, packaged up in the trials of life.

"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy." (James 1:2)