"And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.  Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (Romans 5:3-5).

So often I have faced trials or tribulations and wondered why I was called to rejoice in them, and glory in the fact that I was facing them.  Why would I embrace something that would make me uncomfortable? Why would I feel gratefulness for something that would bring me pain? My life is so often lived under the assumption that my good is found in my comfort and relaxation that when I face those times when life is not comfortable or relaxing, I can begin to doubt the good it will bring to my soul.  However, as scripture tells me so wonderfully, "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you" (Isaiah 26:3).  Now, God's perfect peace might not be what I define as perfect peace.  God's perfect peace is found in the amount of "peace" He has sovereignly ordained my life to contain during a certain period of time, and in the amount my mind is stayed on Him, because I trust in Him and in the good He has promised to work in my life.  My ultimate good is found in His glory, not in my comfort or the assuagement of my griefs.  He is always faithful to work toward that end, and will work to refine me and further glorify Himself through the afflictions He allows.   

Why should I doubt his gracious hand?

Or why should my soul fear?

For all my life is for His gain

My good is founded there.

Be not surprised when trials come

Your Savior said they would

Be agonized when you forget

For He is ever good.

He is indeed good; good in all things, no matter the circumstance.  Yes, it may feel in my heart that all I've done has come to nothing, and that all I think I love has been washed away, but I am still called to sing of His unfailing glory and lift my voice while bowed down from my suffering to proclaim the surpassing greatness of the Lord.  Whether I lose the entire world or a single penny, whether I gain a single penny or the entire world, I am still called to sing of His unfailing love and steadfastness.  His steadfast love will endure forever.  He will be good, and He will be glorified.  Therefore, I will rejoice, knowing that these things of the present time, these cares and loathsome burdens, cannot even be weighed in the balance beside the glory that will be revealed through them.  I will hope in my God, for He is my rock and my fortress, and He will be faithful to work all things according to His purposes.  He is my God, and I place all my trust in Him.  My trust and confidence are not, and will never be, founded in man.  For man is prone to error and is sure to disappoint.  My hope and my soul's verdure are founded upon God's Word and His unfailing steadfastness.  I will trust in the Lord, and will place my trust in no other.  He is my father, my savior, my merciful judge, and my God.  Despite the trial, and despite the pain, I will trust in Him.  He is faithful and His mercies endure.  Though all manner of tribulations come my way, still will I trust Him.  If He should speak, or I should hear nothing, and whether He gives me light or chooses to lead me through the dark, whatever the joy or the sorrow, I'll worship Him because of who He is and who He will continue to be.  When death declares the end of all my labors here on earth, and Christ remains my rest, peace, and reward, may all I've done be an enduring echo that leaves a resounding legacy of His glory and greatness.