I thank you for the bitter things
They’ve been a friend to grace,
They’ve driven me from the paths
    of ease
To storm the secret place
                 ~Florence White Willett

You’ve heard it said ‘You can’t have a test-imony without a test.’  Scripture has much to say on suffering and persecution; it is inevitable for the believer.  In fact, Paul  stated that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God (Acts 17:11).

Nevertheless, scripture instructs us In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (I Thessalonians 5:18).  Let’s be honest, how many of us instinctively thank the Lord when we get knocked off our feet by some unexpected life storm?

There is so much I could say to you, dear reader, about the trials you are enduring right now, but I would much rather let scripture speak to your heart.

But now thus says the LORD that created you… and he that formed you … Fear not: for I have redeemed you, I have called you by your name; you are mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you: when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned; neither shall the flame scorch you.  For  I am the LORD your God.    (Isaiah  43:1-3)        

Our God  is the same yesterday, today and forever my friend  –He will never leave you nor forsake you! (Hebrews 13:5).  I don’t know what you are going through, but God does.  May you find blessed assurance, as did Ms. Willett, that in every bitter thing we can taste the sweetness of God’s grace.