Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you,
as though something strange were happening to you. (1 Peter 4:12 ESV)

You are faithful to study the Scripture daily and even incorporate time in your schedule for weekly fellowship with other Believers. You are committed to acts of service and give generously to charity when financially able. You pray often and have learned how to trust God with your heart. So why is there a recurring trial that constantly plagues you? Your efforts in overcoming it seem to fail. No matter how many times you’ve pleaded with God to free you from it, your prayers have gone unanswered.

Do you think you are alone in a battle such as this? Consider Paul when he prayed for God to remove a thorn from his flesh. He pleaded three times with the Lord, but it was not removed (see 2 Corinthians 12:7-8). But instead, the Lord’s response to Paul was:

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of
Christ may rest upon me. (2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV)

Our prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to see fiery trials as opportunities to seek Your guidance. Teach us how to run to You for the grace You said is sufficient. May the power of Christ rest upon us as we wait upon You in our weaknesses. In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.