My family is in the middle of a large trial with many facets. We are not promised a life full of roses as Christians, and far from it to be honest. It is the people of this world, whom live in and for the world, that live the life of ease. If you are suffering, it may be an honor to Christ in how you respond. But it also may not be. Sit back and look at your situation, and pray for God to reveal why and where you are there. Respond how you feel Christ would.

Muddy Dirt Roads

James 1:2-4   My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

There is only one place with streets paved of gold. There is only heavenly eternal paradise in our lives with Christ after our short time here. Now is a difficult walk, full of various trials, various tests, various hardships that we are called to endure. Think of the story of Job, whom was living a Godly life, and God was so proud He let Satan test him for He knew Job would not fail. When we are pressed during these trials, what is truly inside us comes out. If we have been seeking God and spending time in His Word, the peace that goes against the worldly grain emerges. If we have not, then our worldly spirit spills forth as they are expected. Where we invest ourselves will always rise to the top when the heat is applied. How do you respond?

1 Peter 1:6-8  In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom you have not seen you love. You will honor Christ by your response to what you are facing. How can they not “lash out” as everyone else does? How come they don’t act as others do? You can possess something that the world does not comprehend. You can possess something that the world cannot take away. They will want what you possess, for they do not understand the hope that you have within you. Romans 5:3-5 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Faith and Hope are in dwelt in your soul, and no trial you must endure can take away that security that only Christ provides for eternal paradise with Him. These things are temporary.