I was in the midst of a traffic Armageddon!
I live in the Huber Ridge development of Westerville. On Aug. 1, the intersection of State and Dempsey roads, which is a main entrance to the development for about 1,600 residents in the area, closed for repair for 30 days.
As a resident of the area, it was troubling.
My commute time to work and church increased, and it was a pain to say the least.
But I was able to get great advice from the local homeowners group, the Huber Ridge Area Association, and quickly found that my “trial” wasn’t that big of a deal.
Here’s the thing: we encounter little trials and big trials all the time in life. Even traffic detours test our faith in God’s goodness. And sometimes we forget that our trials of faith have value.
James wrote these encouraging words:
“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing” (James 1:2-4 NLT).
Whatever your trial may be, small or large, it is an opportunity to grow in Christ.
—Chris Pugh
Follow @chrispugh3(EDITOR’S NOTE—Photo: Chris Pugh)
James 1:2-18 reminds me that every time one of those daily frustrations arises, or even a major setback or disappointment confronts me, that God is allowing me to experience it to draw me closer to Him.
I love these kind of testaments, cause after the trial is over you realize how good it was to endure that challenge and have hope, that in the end, it all becomes better!! Out of the trial, a new beginning can be realized. Like a brand new Dempsey Road and an easier way to church and work!!