It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes.
Psalm 119:71 NKJV
Learning to ski as an adult is harder than expected. Fatigued muscles, bruises, cold toes, and lack of confidence do nothing to make that first day on the slopes enjoyable. If one keeps trying, however, the ski bug will bite. Sometimes a new skier will boast, “I skied all morning without falling.” This is not the best goal a beginner should have. Ski instructors say, “If you’re not falling, you’re not learning.” No one improves without trying new trails, pushing limits, and even wiping out. Eventually we master a skill if we don’t give up.
Spiritually, we also learn most through adversity not prosperity. The process of growing in holiness often hurts. God allows things that trip us up because it increases our dependence on Him. A child in pain runs immediately to her parent. God’s pruning does the same for us.
That may be why God tells us to rejoice when we fall into various trials, because when our faith is tested, we learn patience (endurance) and grow in maturity. He also invites us to ask Him for wisdom during trials, and He will generously provide (see James 1:2–5).
Therefore, when we feel bruised, fatigued, hurt, or exhausted, let’s remember these can be the crucial things that develop our spiritual muscles, produce the most growth, and improve our ability to persevere.
When I can’t take any more or fall any lower, God, may I remember to rejoice in what I am learning through the School of Trials. Your teaching methods are best. Amen.
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Today’s reading was adapted from Daily Wisdom for Women: 2017 Devotional Collection with permission from Barbour Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading was written by Marcia Hornok.