James 1:2-4 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. ESV

Recently my husband reminded me of this verse. The things that we experience. The hiccups and the hurricanes. All of it for a greater purpose. All of it matters. All of it is in God’s hands.

It hurts. The pain we endure is uncomfortable. Often I have found myself crying at His feet. “Not again! Why now? I don’t understand! We love you and are trying to serve you, here!”

But you see, it is not about what we are trying or not trying to do. It is a growing, shaping…making perfect and complete.

Romans 5:3-5 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.  And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. NLT

When it is my time. When He calls me Home I want to be ready. At the end of this life, I want my God to look at me and see nothing lacking. Only by trials, the testing of faith, the development of endurance and character. In these the fullness, the complete work.

Remember, in the midst hiccups or hurricanes, God is near. He is with you! This truth doesn’t make the trial go away. It doesn’t make the trial easier. However, this truth in trial gives us endurance. It works a greater purpose of perfection in our hearts. Trust Him. Trust God, in the hiccup or hurricane!

Matthew 25:21 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ NKJV

Isaiah 64:8 But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand. NKJV