Caught in the CloseoutSample

SHRED YOUR TRIALS

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.”

—Romans 5:3–4

How can we rejoice in tough times?

Because we know that our God is the Master of the ocean of our lives. He has provided the Holy Spirit to give us the courage and strength to position ourselves as lifelong wave riders, expecting the waves to keep coming and looking for opportunities to ride each wave triumphantly to the shore.

As young believers, we jump over the incoming waves while holding onto Jesus’ hands. When we get knocked down, we learn that Jesus is still standing with His hands ready to steady us as we get back up and try some more.

Our trust builds in Jesus’ ability to keep us from drowning. Our familiarity with waves in our ocean deepens our understanding of life.

Who can be mad at the ocean that there are waves? It’s part of being an ocean.

Likewise, who can be mad at God that there are troubles? It’s part of life.

As your walk with Christ becomes deeper, He gives you more and more joy. You find happiness in the ocean of your life and learn the rhythm of life’s seasons of calm seas and rough seas. The gentle waves are quieter times when you can simply enjoy the ocean.

When the large waves come rolling in, you can position yourself in the palm of God’s hand and know that the ride to the shore will be an adventure that will not destroy you, but will improve your surfing skills, and your ability to live the abundant life.

Go Deeper:

• Think about the most recent trial you’ve faced—or maybe you’re going through something right now. It might be something at work, at home, in your family, or in the surf.
• What was your response to that tough time? Anger, frustration, even grief? Take a moment to think through your reaction and the emotions beneath it.
• How can you begin to trust God more in this trial—and open yourself up to what He’s showing you about His character, and yours, in your hard times?