Joy in the Middle of Pain?

I remember many years ago I had a horrible time understanding the difference between having no problems in my life and, having peace in the midst of my problems. I used to think that having God in my life meant that he would take away all of my problems. As I started to pursue a relationship with him more, I came to understand that choosing to follow him actually meant that the devil and all his friends would do everything in their power to pull me away from him, and to take away my peace.

I remember having many things happen all at once. I remember getting upset and praying ( begging and screaming) that God would make it all end. It was during one of these “praying” sessions that he explained to me that he wanted me to learn to have joy and peace in my trials. It seemed like an impossible thing to me. How could I have joy when people around me were criticizing me, or rejecting me? How could I have joy when my bank account was empty and the brakes go out on my car?

The answer to that was trust. It was during these times that I learned to not scream and beg, but to trust. I learned that the joy he was talking about was HIM! He became my joy! People around me would try their best to rattle my cage and tell me that I should be afraid. God would tell me that he had it all under control. I learned to trust him when the situation looked impossible. I learned that even in sadness, like the death of someone, or some other deep loss, HE could bring me joy!

I encourage you today that if you are in a battle and your circumstances look impossible, go to him. Develop a relationship with him and learn to hear his voice. It may be hard, but he will teach you and then nothing will be able to rattle your cage again! You will have joy in your trials!