by Kala Loptien

Do I have that?

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this Sound Cloud link. 

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith — more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire — may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 1: 6-7 ESV

Have you ever wondered if your faith was/is genuine? What a challenging question to attempt to answer. Personally, I can look back at previous seasons or pain points in my life and honestly confess I did not handle them well. There were trials that could’ve been opportunities to cling tighter to God and allow Him to refine me. Instead, it seemed to take several. I can see Him clearly involved and active along every turn — even when I wasn’t pursuing Him. Perhaps some of this resonates with you?

I think the best learning outcome for us is this: we need Him. We need less of ourselves and more of Him. God is right there in the midst of it all. He never leaves us. I love this quote by Charles Spurgeon. He says, “When God places a burden upon you, He places His arms underneath you.”

What a beautiful image that is. When we cling to God and truly release the death grip we have on our lives, we can feel His peace surpassing understanding, can’t we? We know there’s not another explanation for calm comfort in a storm. God knew we would struggle in the world — with trials and our sinful nature. It’s why He sent the Holy Spirit as a helper. It’s also why He provided thousands of passages to keep us rooted in truth, and a community of believers for accountability and encouragement. Our stories are meant to help others and bring God glory. I pray that, no matter what comes our way in this life, we will hold tightly to God. Allow Him to provide, heal, handle, protect, guide and care for you like only He can. With Him, we need not worry. Amen.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado