Daily Devotion 10/01/25

I first memorized this scripture in my early twenties. Let me tell you, up to that point in my life, my trials were shallow and few. I listened to this scripture (I had the KJV Bible of CD for my car) as I drove to work every day and wondered at why I would “count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.” Although I believed in the truth of the scripture, I somewhat foolishly thought what is good for thee does not apply to me.

One lesson I still needed to learn is that trials help us develop maturity. The innocence of youth lets me assume all things should go my way and that a burden-free life is ideal. But that is not realistic, nor does God promise us such a life. There are endless things that are not in my control.

With years of perspective, I can look back on my life and pinpoint several times when I was being tried in the small things. I needed hope in God when we received a devastating medical diagnosis. I needed to know the source of peace when I sat in the ICU and was told our insurance didn’t want to cover a surgery. I needed to know that joy is not tied to circumstances when I sat through my daughter’s funeral.

I am so thankful I committed this scripture to memory and hid it in my heart for the days when I would need it. Take some time today to look back and see where you were being prepared for the things you are living through today and thank God for His provision.

Prayer for today:

Heavenly Father, I thank you for being a God that works all of life’s trials for good and wastes nothing. Help me to see the places where you were preparing me, purifying me, and drawing me closer to you. Thank you for helping me learn to be steadfast in my faith so that I may live out the mission you have for my life. Guide my steps in the days ahead. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.