“Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
One tough nut. I was walking this morning and I happened to look to my right and tucked away in the backyard of one of the homes was a crape myrtle. What was a little unusual was the fact that this one was in full bloom. You see we have several in our own yard, but they were just beginning to strut-their-stuff. Give them time and they will be awesome but right now—not quite. As I saw this beauty it just reminded me of the wonder of all that God has created. In fact, I said as much, out loud. Speaking to the creator I thanked Him for His creation.
I am constantly amazed by all that is going on around me. I love to watch nature programs on television and I find myself often amazed at both the beauty but also the lessons we can learn. The other day, I received a devotion, and it was talking about the Lodgepole Pine trees covering large parts of Yellowstone National Park. It seems that these magnificent trees not only are beautiful in their own way—it seems they offer a powerful lesson in adversity.
Here’s the deal. The cones of the pine tree hang on the tree for years without falling to the ground and releasing their seed. In fact, even when the cone does fall, it often remains tightly closed. Wait. What? Yep…that’s the truth. So how have these reluctant trees grown to blanket the park with forests? They’ve grown through adversity. Here’s how it works. When a forest fire rages, destroying all the trees in its path, the intense heat actually causes the Lodgepole Pinecones to burst open and finally release their seed. So out of devastation, these unique pines are often the first trees to produce new growth.
Isn’t that amazing? You see, only God could come up with a plan like that and the best part…He isn’t just working that out in trees…He’s working it out in our lives. God never promises that we’ll escape adversity in life. In fact, Jesus said matter of factly that we would have trouble and tribulations in this world. But hang on. He then says, “But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” In other words, we will have troubles but along with the troubles comes Someone who is greater that whatever! Jesus trumps trouble all the time and every time!
Regardless of the circumstances, God promises that He will hold you in the midst of every storm – and that through your struggle, He will bring about something beautiful for His glory and your greatest good. How about that. So, whether you’re facing the dark clouds of tragedy or the struggles of everyday life, trust today that God loves you, He’s with you, and He can bring new life through your adversity. In other words—He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne
Grits with Grace 