rough patch

Every so often, we endure various trials. Big ones, little ones, some that stick, some that don't. A growing process for our faith is what I like to think of them as. In 1 Peter 1:6-9 it reads, "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 having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith--the salvation of your souls". Amazing to think of our faith as being "much more precious than gold...". But I love how it reads, "...that perishes..." right after those words. The Lord is letting us know that something the world holds to such high esteem, perishes. A reminder that our faith is much more important, we should be spending our time focusing on our faith and not our riches. The Lord's faithfulness to us is never ending, as should our faith in Him be also. The Lord puts us through these trials to test our faith. To make us stronger, not in ourselves, but in Him. The Lord wants us to endure these things so that when we are standing on the other side of the storm, safe and sound, we can look back at everything He did for us to get us through those trials. To teach us how our faith in Him made it possible for us to make it through. It's in that moment, when we thank Him for His faithfulness and mercy, that our faith is strengthened. In James 1:2-4, it touches on this point, "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.". With each trial we endure, we are slowly being shaped into the perfect work of art the Lord is molding us into. I have to keep my mind on God during these times, those moments when I ask myself, why? Instead I should be praying, 'help me through this as long as You chose for me to endure, Lord? What can I do for you, Lord? Am I soft and pliable in your hands, Lord? Mold me, Lord.'...