The Rock

I cannot believe it is almost a year since I started this blog.  What a year it has been.  There have been a number of firsts for me and although they have not all been easy, they have most definitely helped me to grow.

When difficulties come into our lives we have two choices, we can either allow them to make us bitter, or we can allow them to make us better, but ultimately the choice is ours. On my recent trip to Colombia, I saw a tree that simply amazed me.  This tree grew despite the apparent obstacle in its way. 

I just absolutely love this tree that has grown up over a rock. 

How many times do we try to avoid the obstacles in life so that life is easier, forgetting that it is through the difficult times in our lives that we find the most personal growth?   How many times does God allow us to go through struggles to make us stronger? The Bible never promises us an easy life, as a matter of fact there are a number of authors that state life will be difficult, but that God will use the to make us stronger people. 

James 1:2-4 says, "Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way."

Romans 5:3-4 says, "There's more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next."

I know that God has amazing things in store for my life:  I know He is preparing me for what is ahead.  So when the difficulties come, I try to remember that they are for my good and His glory.  I discovered a verse this past year that really touched my heart.  

Romans 9:33 says, "Careful! I've put a huge stone on the road to Mount Zion, a stone you can't get around. But the stone is me! If you're looking for me, you'll find me on the way, not in the way."

Jesus Himself is that stone, that stone that is not in the way but on the way.  He is there with me to help me to grow. I love it!  I hope, that like that Colombian tree, I can grow despite the apparent obstacles in my path, that I will reach for the sky as I was meant to do.  How about you?

Be Blessed, my friends.

*all biblical references were taken from The Message Bible.