Trials

Little bird reflects on how the Lord helps it to grow by allowing trials to stretch it beyond its current level of existence.

It rests with confidence in God's willingness to help it through these trials: "No trial has come to you but what is human. God is faithful and will not let you be tried beyond your strength; but with the trial he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to bear it." 1

Flightless Dove

Pushed from the nest when still too young,
With flight feathers not fully found:
Flailing, fumbling, tailspin tumbling,
Accelerating to the ground.

The Spirit dives and swoops asunder,
Bearing it up on powerful wings!
Flightless dove now fears no longer;
Trusting in Spirit's strength, it sings:

"He bears me up whene'er I fall.
He teaches me not to fear death.
His mighty wings o'ershadow me,
Sheltering me from breath to breath."

Flight is only reached through trial;
Falls and failings mark each mile.

Little Bird realizes that these trials are necessary for its growth: "Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us." 2

It is aware that these trials are necessary to help him overcome his weaknesses: "Endure your trials as "discipline"; God treats you as sons. For what "son" is there whom his father does not discipline?"3

"In this you rejoice, although now for a little while you may have to suffer through various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."4

It rejoices in knowing that "through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God."51 . "Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. And let perseverance be perfect, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."5

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1. 1 Corinthians 10: 13
2. Romans 5: 3-5
3. Hebrews 12: 7
4. 1 Peter 1: 6-7
5. Acts 14:22
6. James 1:2-4