Read:  Job 23: 1-10

 Verse: “...But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”

                                                                                                     - Job 23:10 (NIV)

 

I was walking along a deserted stretch of beach when I came upon a large seashell that had washed up onto the shore. Broken and bleached of color, I walked past it and went on my way.

Further along, I came across a second seashell. It was the same type of shell as the first, only this one was polished and vibrant in color and pleasing to the eye, and I picked it up and put it in my pocket.

Later that evening, I thought about those two shells. Why had one been transformed into something beautiful and the other not? Both had been buffeted by the same high waves, carried aloft by the same revolving tides. So what made the difference?

It then occurred to me how much we as humans are like those two shells. The first shell, perhaps resisting nature’s inevitable adverse elements, splintered and cracked under the pressure, becoming a solitary object that is avoided and shunned. But the second shell, taking a different course, allowed the turbulent waters and harsh winds to do their work, knowing that, over time, its true colors and beauty would be revealed.   

When adversity comes our way, and we feel like giving in to our anger and depression and isolating ourselves from others, remember that trials and hardships can work for our good, if we allow them.

Prayer: Lord, make us pliant in all aspects of our lives, knowing that You are doing a good work in us.

Thought for the day: Adversity instills beauty.

Prayer focus: Those in the midst of trial or tribulation.

 


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