Spring is here, and with the weather finally being nice, I am able to go to the park near where I live and do some serious walking. A nice park; it has open areas, wooded areas, and some bridges over streams. I have learned that one complete circle through it all takes me fifteen minutes, so it's easy to know how far I am going by counting my laps.
I know what I want to accomplish through doing this, and the added benefits are fresh air and nature, which I have always enjoyed being in. Even though I have allergies, I've been able to endure it. Sometimes, though, I will have days where I don't have a lot of energy, and the trek is tedious and long. Looking down on the ground, each step seems to take forever, and I forget how far I've gone. Instead of concentrating on my goal, which in the short run is getting back to my car, and the long run is losing my winter weight, I am thinking about my steps. Without looking up and enjoying the scenery as I pass by, I am missing out on everything by looking down.
Isn't it that way when we are going through a trial in life? It can take longer than you want, and you get weary. Each day you dwell on your feelings and circumstances instead of looking ahead to the final goal, the finish line where the trial will be over. Trials don't last forever, but some are longer and harder than others. And do you ever wonder why God lets you go through trials? Are there lessons to be learned through them? Are you going through a trial at this moment?
God has a purpose for allowing us to go through trials.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers,
whenever you face trials of many kinds,
because you know that the testing of your faith
develops perseverance.
Perseverance must finish its work
so that you may be mature and complete,
not lacking anything.
-James 1:2-4
When you are in the midst of a trial, it can test your faith, and endurance. But knowing that God is watching you from the finish line, can reassure you that He will help you get through it. You will be a stronger person from it. Though there may be days where it seems like your journey is going on forever, instead of looking down on those days, look up and ahead towards your goal. And what is your goal? To grow closer to God, to become more mature in your faith, and to receive all that He has waiting for you!
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial,
because when he has stood the test,
he will receive the crown of life
that God has promised
to those who love Him.
-James 1:12
There is a saying out there: After the rain comes a rainbow! Look up...you just may be seeing it soon!
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