Trust in Trying Times
George T. Wilkerson (Maryland, USA)


We know that all things work together for good for those who love God. - Romans 8:28 (NRSVUE)



One of the hardest tests of faith I’ve experienced was when I suffered starvation. While kept in solitary confinement as a pre-trial detainee, I was given no food for eight days straight. I cried out to God, “How can you possibly use this to help me?” After my trial, I was housed with other inmates, and I soon understood how my painful experience had changed my perspective in a positive way.

In the prison cafeteria our food portions are small, so there is no shortage of hungry adults here. It breaks my heart to see the look of sadness on a man’s face when he can’t afford to buy more food to supplement the cafeteria’s small portions. When I have money, God moves me to purchase extra food to share.

I believe God used my hardship to soften my heart. It made me more compassionate toward others who suffer from hunger. I don’t always understand how God is at work in my life, especially during difficult times, but I have learned to trust that God is working for my good — to develop my character and make me more Christlike.



TODAY'S PRAYER
Dear Father, help us to trust you when we are suffering. Show us how to be more compassionate to others. Amen.



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TODAY'S READING
Romans 5:1-11


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
In trying times, God will help me persevere.


PRAYER FOCUS
Those who are hungry