This month, as you meditate upon the life of Joseph, think about your own life and the times you’ve had to endure hardship and pain. During that time, you probably didn’t understand what was happening to you. You probably questioned God’s ability to hear your cries or see your suffering. Fast forward to today or the end of that trial. What did you learn? Was it something tangible or intangible?

I think the greatest thing we can take from a trial is a refined faith. I know that some people think that trials=great blessings on the way but I don’t agree. While it is true that God rewards the faithful, the Bible does not say anything about those rewards being only on Earth. I know some people find that very hard to swallow but between you and me, I would rather have heavenly rewards than perishable earthly ones.

Don’t put a bold face on your suffering. Embrace it and see what God can do through it!