“It is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13*).
I found myself in a hospital bed after a stroke and thought, “If only this would pass.” Thank God, I didn’t have paralysis or speech difficulties, but part of my peripheral vision was lost. After eight days, I was able to return home. However, there were quite a few changes. I bumped into objects and had to relearn how to navigate properly. But eventually, I managed.
When we face challenges, often our first thought is, “I just want this to be over.” We always want the trial to end and to return to a good, peaceful life. But as I reflect on my personal trials, I notice that the most difficult times are usually when I can focus on God the most. I think that in these moments we can lean on the Lord much more than ever before. The stroke affected me physically but helped me spiritually. I learned to thank God in all circumstances.
The Lord is always with us, and it is a great joy to experience God’s peace amidst the trials we go through. We should not fear these moments because they are opportunities for our faith in our Creator to be affirmed.
Link to the original article: https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals/en-2025-08-25
* Biblical quotes are from the Bible, a new translation from the original languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013