In my mind’s eye, everyone has a life tool chest. Before I became a Christian, it was filled with survival tools of which I used to survive. But when I became a believer, God started replacing those survival tools with tools equipping me to thrive. These tools were derived from studying and reading the Word of God and prayer, and through trials, perseverance, experience.
That is why James says, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” James 1:2-4 NLT.
With each trial is an opportunity to build life’s tool chest; tools we can use to be successful in all we do and go through. I think of Joseph who went through trial after trial, but God used the tools he accumulated during those trials to make Joseph the leader God designed him to be.
I believe God is doing that in my life. I believe He has replaced those survival tools I once used just to get by, and has given me the gift of using my trials to provided me tools to thrive!
“Lord, I count it pure joy for my trials! Continue to grow me into the person You ordained me to be, and continue to fill my tool chest with the tools needed to persevere and succeed in what you have planned for me. I want my life to glorify You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
In the journey of life, our tool chest evolves from mere survival tools to instruments of thriving, shaped by our faith and trials. Just as Joseph emerged as a leader through his challenges, we too can find purpose and strength in the midst of adversity. As we embrace each trial as an opportunity for growth, we become equipped to fulfill our divine destiny.
As you reflect on your own journey, consider the tools in your life’s chest. How has your faith transformed your approach to challenges? Share your insights and experiences with others, and let’s encourage one another on this journey of faith and growth. Together, let’s embrace trials as opportunities to thrive and glorify the One who equips us for every circumstance.