Potential Benefits To Be Gained by Trials.

     There are a number of potential benefits to be gained from trying experiences.  Trials may
     * awaken in the heart a greater sense of need for God (see Psalm 50:15; 86:7.
     * generate deeper trust in the Lord (see Psalm (9:9, 10; 2 Corinthians 1:8, 9.
     * make us strong in character qualities such as patience, faith, and humility  (see James 1:2,3; Romans 5: 1-5; Job 23:10.
     * grant us the privilege of identifying more closely with the sufferings of Christ (see Romans 8:17; 2 Corinthians 1:5; Philippians 1:29; 3:8, 10; 1 Peter 2:21,22; 4:13.
     * enable us to understand the hardships of others and help them find God in their pain  (see 2 Corinthians1:4; 1 Corinthians 12:26.
     * and persuade us more fully of the power of God's love to hold on to us  (see Romans 8:31-39.
     Only God knows what to allow and what to prevent in every case, for He alone is acquainted with the individual strengths and weaknesses of every heart.  "God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it:  1 Corinthians 10:13.  We can be absolutely certain that nothing will ever befall us that God does not deem for our good.  He will always give us either strength to bear our trials or a way of escape.
     In one sense we can say that nothing bad has ever happened to us.  Because ultimately when we reach the eternal shores, we will see God's providence in every chapter of our lives.  We will not wish we had been led any other way than how He chose to lead us.  It will be seen that a bright and beautiful light of love guided our every step.

     Praise You Father; for Your sovereignty in my life.  It is so good to know that You are absolutely committed to my happiness and well-being.  I am confident You will never do anything inconsistent with Your love.  Thank You for allowing just the trials I need to keep me close to You and for averting those I cannot bear:  In the worthy name of Jesus I pray.  Amen

     (All I can say is 'Amen'.  Grandma Joan.)