“When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul” (Psalm 94:19).

Today was just one of those days. You know, those days when you get up extra early to pack lunches for preschool and jump in the car only for it to break down on the way. One of those days when tempers flare and your kids fight all day long. One of those days when searching for someone to help, anyone on the planet, comes up empty because everyone on the planet is busy. You wonder, could all of that happen in one day? Well, yes, that was my day today. It was just one of those days.  

I realize that these circumstances are merely inconveniences compared to big world issues. I realize that there are people who are starving, enduring horrific abuse, and battling terminal cancer. Still, my little trials aren’t insignificant to God. I believe He wants to help me learn through the little so when the big trials hit—and they will—I am grounded in His Word, His love, and His character.

So, today I have been grieved by various trials so that the tested genuineness of my faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:6–7).

And though they have been small trials, I believe God is preparing me so that when and if the fiery trial comes to test me I will not be surprised, rather I will rejoice insofar as I am sharing Christ's sufferings (1 Peter 4:12–13). I take comfort in knowing that my high priest is able to sympathize with my weaknesses, and in every respect has been tempted as I have, yet without sin. And because of this, I can draw near to the throne of grace with confidence and receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Heb. 4:15–16).

What trials have you experienced over the past week? Maybe you, too, had one of those days. God’s Word says trials will happen, but His grace is sufficient, He sympathizes and loves you dearly, and you and I can run to Him to receive comfort and mercy and grace in our time of need. Let us draw near today, tomorrow, and forevermore and receive His grace and great love.

“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 Cor. 12:9).