Hardships - Calm Waters

When trials and tribulations come, I tend to ask, "Why me?"
Embracing fear and doubt... instead of opportunity.
"Surely I do not deserve this," and the enemy agrees,
Recalling every struggle, and not the victories.
Satan tells me it is hopeless, there is nothing to be done,
A raging sea of negativity, a clever web is spun.

So easily discouraged, I'd prepare for my defeat,
Then, the Spirit would remind me... who resides beneath Who's feet.
The Father knows my heart, and every want, that I would plead,
And smiles, despite my weakness, "Child, I know what you need."
He would have me to rely on Him, come willingly or not...
The Father's love and promise... how quickly I forgot.

Full of pride by nature, stubborn and strong willed,
Reminded of His faithfulness...each prophecy fulfilled.
Let me always listen to the Sovereign Lord, who knows me,
Open up my heart and mind, to all that You would show me.
Grant me, Lord, a measure of Your unfailing grace,
And let me see beyond myself... this nose upon my face.

Surrounded by the darkness, I reach to take His hand...
A God who works all things for good, if only I will stand.
Victory waits for those with faith, my shield against the foe.
Faith is what I have... not what I see, but what I know.
Faith would come by hearing, the Word of God is true...
"There is something to be done, my child." Trust is what I do.

The reason for this test, unclear... His ways are not our ways.
Lost, but not alone, I lift my hands to Him in praise.
My circumstance provides the chance... my faith in God, to prove.
Peace and joy displayed because I know the Lord will move.
Trust in God is what I do, for I know who He is...
I know the victory will be mine... the glory will be His.

Avoiding pain and sorrow is not the victory to be won,
But knowing we endure all things, strengthened by His Son.
He would have us trust in Him... His faithfulness to show,
He made us over-comers... but first we undergo.
This battle will not be the last... on that, we have assurance,
Please, let the light of Christ in us, be shown in our endurance.

Children of the Most High God, through sacrifice made free,
When trials and tribulations come, rejoice... ask "Why not me?"
And let the Peace of God in us, be what the world would see.
Lord, when I'm tested, let me find a way to honor You,
Let faith in God be what I have... let trust be what I do.

Received by Cheryl Winchester