But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold… He carries out his decree against me, and many such plans he still has in store. Job 23: 10, 14 NIV.

Earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes are some of the natural disasters that keep recurring throughout the world. Terrorist attacks, gang rapes, and robbery is a daily feature in the news. Divorce, unemployment, and poverty are social ills that continue plague mankind. Cancer, heart attacks, and unknown diseases hit homes each day. Accidents, thievery, and conflict occurs within our communities. There is no escape from the many trials and tests that life throws our way. But why?

Some say it is because of sin. Others because of our stupidity. And others still because of time and chance. Whatever the reason, if God is sovereign then why does He allow us unwanted trials?

Could it be maybe that God allows challenges in our life so something more positive may come from it? When times become tough, how do we respond? Do we toughen ourselves up, pick up our bootstraps and keep plugging away? Or do we finally admit to ourselves that we can’t do it any longer? That we are at the end of our hope. Without a miracle, “we can’t make it” becomes the focus. Then what happens? Suddenly, or maybe even decades later, circumstances,  people, or events occur that change everything. You are out of the mess you were in, and you don’t even know how to explain it to others.

How else does one become closer to God except when the bad times roll through? Maybe this is too simple for most, but isn’t it the trials and tests that allow us to either walk with God or run away from Him? When we choose to lean on Him, does He take the opportunity to build the faith he has given us by fixing the situation? Doesn’t He use these circumstances to transform our hearts and minds to become more like Christ? Maybe everything is not yet perfectly like we would want it, but one has to admit, it is better than before.

Life constantly throws lemons at us so we can learn how to make lemonade. We learn to make lemonade by leaning and walking with our Father-Son-Spirit. That relationship becomes closer, deeper, and more impactful as a result of surrendering the self and allowing the Triune God to lead us through the difficult maze we are seeking to come out of. Life is more about strengthening the relationship between God and you, than our comfort, pleasure, and goals. We are all being prepared to lead and serve for eternity as His children in His Kingdom. Today’s challenges are tomorrows trophies.

This may not take the pain away from your current ordeal. But at least you now know there is a greater reason and purpose for transforming lemons into lemonade.  It’s not about the drink, but the relationship that grows from it.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Executive Director & Founder
Marketplace Bible Institute
& Resource Center, Inc
Author of e-Books:
 *  Great Business Emulates a Good God
 *  Be Radical…Follow Christ!
 *  Simply The Messenger
 *  Unequally Married

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