When I don't understand...

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials. Knowing that the testing of your faith produce endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. ~James 1:2-4

Have you ever felt confused and at a complete lack of understanding? Have you ever just wanted to scream, "Why God?!" I'm in one of those valleys right now in my life. The mountain in front of me obscures my view. I can't see where these present trials are going to lead me. And that mountain there in front of me looks unsurmountable. My legs are sore and achy and my mind is fatigued. In myself I just can't find the strength to take that first step up the other side.

But then I remember that I'm not walking through this valley alone. I'm not expected to climb that mountain on my own will and strength. I remember that I have the one who made that mountain walking right beside me. And He reminds me that He'll carry me when I get too tired to climb. He also reminds me that He can see past that mountain. That mountain does not obscure his view. And he can see the path that is called my life the whole way to the end. He sees every valley, every mountain, every cool rippling stream, every warm sandy beach. And He walks side-by-side with me wherever my path may lead.

Lord, help me to remember that you have my best interest in mind when you allow me to face trials. Help me to remember that through the firing process, I am refined in my faith. Help me to remember that each experience in life, whether good or bad, is making me into the woman of God that you desire for me to be. Hold my hand as I walk up this mountain, and carry me when I'm too exhausted and overwhelmed to keep going. Guide me, Lord, because I know that you can see the beauty on the other side.