Trials

Our family is going through a trying time right now. Our grandson (a 27 year old in the prime of his life) was in a horrific car accident a few days ago. He’s going through a series of surgeries due to abdominal injuries, a fractured vertebrae, fractured shoulder bones, and a lacerated foot. We are thankful that he is alive and has no head injuries. It could have been worse, but it’s hard, to say the least.

Trials come to all of us. We struggle with that. It’s a hard pill to swallow. But isn’t it great that the Lord can use even the most difficult times in our lives for His purpose and glory? And didn’t Jesus tell us to expect trials? He said: “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV). Well, that’s good news! And I’ll take all the good news available.

One of my favorite passages is from the book of James. He is so practical and down to earth. In some of his opening verses he says: “When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives my brothers, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance. But let the process go on until that endurance is fully developed, and you will find you have become men of mature character, men of integrity with no weak spots” (James 1:2-4, J. B. Phillips). I’m sure that goes for women, too.

Several years ago I was so moved by that passage that I wrote a song based on it. Instead of including the recording of it here, I will give you the lyrics in paragraph form. Sometimes it’s good just to read the words to songs without being distracted by the music. So here it is.

Welcome, Sweet Trial. Welcome to my life. I’ve thrown out the weapons that would shield me from your knife. So cut where it’s needful; pierce me, tho I bleed; then gently bind up the wounds, for you know my deepest need. Heal me and raise me up; make me stronger than before. I fear not your entrance. I’ve opened wide the door. Welcome, Sweet Trial. Welcome, Gift of Love. God, in His wisdom, has sent you from above.

Welcome, Sweet Trial. Welcome indeed. In counting your rich reward, from poverty I’m freed. So come, I will count the joy waiting at the end; then gently mix in the sorrow to obtain the sweetest blend. Hold me and lift me up; give me grace for ev’ry day to reach faith’s objective with patience on the way. Welcome, Sweet Trial. Welcome, Gift of Love.
God, in His wisdom, has sent you from above.

Are you enduring a trial today? How are you handling it all? With a welcoming spirit? Or is that too much to ask?