I’ve had one of those days when nothing seemed to go right. I could list out everything for you but that is unnecessary. You’ve had those days too. At times I spiritualize matters, wondering what God is up to. Other times I get grumpy and just sulk about matters. A better way for me, and I suggest for you, is to remember that trials will come our way and our response to them is what matters. We can make life difficult for those around us, or we can smile through the challenges, knowing everyone has them and that God can use these challenges to refine our character. The Psalmist says, “For you, O God, tested us; You refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but You brought us to a place of abundance” (Psalm 66:10-12). Whatever the source of our frustrations, allow them to refine your character into who God wants you to be.
Dr. David Hawkins, MBA, MSW, MA, PhD, is a Christian Clinical Psychologist and Director of the Marriage Recovery Center. He has helped bring healing to thousands of marriages and individuals and is passionate about working with couples in crisis. If you need help, please reach out to his Client Care Team at 206.219.0145 or through their website. Dr. Hawkins is also a speaker & trainer for the American Association of Christian Counselors and is a best-selling author of over thirty books including Never Fight Again, Gauranteed and When Loving Him is Hurting You. He has two grown sons, is happily married to Christie Hawkins, and lives on Bainbridge Island, outside Seattle, WA.