The Sum Of All Trials

The Sum of All 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. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us.

Romans 5:3-5

She dragged her preteen body into the study, eyes downcast, shoulders sagging. I glanced up from my computer in time to see her collapse to her knees, throw her arms before her, and bury her face in the carpet.

Her voice escaped from under the mop of hair: “Mom, why do we have to do algebra?”

Stifling a laugh, I answered, “Because we all need something to torture us, so when it is behind us, we are thankful.”

Her voice saturated with disgust, she replied, “Well, it’s working.”

For her it is algebra. For me it is weight loss. For a friend it is her mother’s declining health. For each of us it is something bigger than ourselves, so big it drops us to our knees wondering why this and why us, asking how we will get through, but knowing whom to go to with our questions.

Right now she hates algebra, and she just wants out of the pain it causes. I understand. However, I also know she will survive.

I will survive too. I know it.

I looked at the frustrated heap in front of me and said, “Honey, your hair looks like dead Cousin Itt from The Addams Family TV show. It’s sort of creeping me out.”

Laughter bubbled forth. A smiling face popped up. A quick hug. “Thanks, Mom. I know I can always count on you to make me feel better.”

And I know I can always count on my Father to make me feel better.

—Jerri Kelley

Dear Lord, thank you for trials that lead me right to you, the one I can always count on. Amen.