by Edie Melson
And not only
this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings
about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character,
hope; and hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out
within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5
Fall is my favorite time of the year. I love the cool, crisp days that bring relief from
summer’s heat. But most of all, I love the beautiful colors adorning the trees
in our Blue Ridge Mountains. My husband and I get great joy from driving
through the mountains to see the changing leaves. It always amazes me how
vibrant the colors are and, until recently. I took that beauty for granted.
Last year, I
learned what makes the trees brighter some years as opposed to others. The
intensity and brilliance of the colors is virtually unaffected by the amount of
stress the tree has suffered during the previous season—as long as it has
plenty of rain.
That knowledge stopped me in my tracks, as God immediately
began to apply its spiritual truth to my life. God is the water, the lifeline
that keeps my life healthy. It doesn’t matter how great the trial, as long as I
look to Him for provision, I can come through triumphant.
Inevitably, I think
about people around me who’ve suffered intense pain and come through to a place
of peace. I could see that the constant in their lives had also been the Living
Water of God’s Spirit, sustaining them, no matter the stress. The more God
worked through their stress and suffering, the more vibrantly His brilliance
shined through them.
Now this knowledge
leads me to a choice. Will I fight God’s plan, turn my back on Him, and seek
the path of least resistance—the path that leads to a life without color? Or
will I let God transform my trials and tribulations into brilliance?
