We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Rom. 5:3)

HUSBAND’S JOB LOSS. Daughter’s infertility. Grandson’s depression. Breast cancer survivor. What do all of these have in common? Each was a circumstance I faced in my walk with God, and all call for perseverance and hope.

I remember talking to the Lord about my daughter’s infertility, reminding Him how she had always wanted a houseful of children. Now, it appeared she and her husband may be infertile. My heart was in anguish as I cried out to the Lord. He gently replied, “Do you believe I am who you tell people I am? Will you still follow me if she doesn’t have children? If so, then you have to believe I am in charge, know everything, and have their best interests at heart.” That conversation stopped me cold. I replied, “Yes, Lord, I believe You are who You say You are.” Immediately, hope and peace flowed through my soul. Trusting God required an act of the will that day and many other days until we got the news that my daughter was pregnant.

God doesn’t promise the outcome we want, but He promises to sustain us through the journey. I grew during that unexpected challenge in my life, and when the grandson’s depression and the breast cancer came, I was reminded of the most important question: Do you really believe I am who you tell people I am?

Say aloud to God, “I believe you are who I tell people you are.”

Yolanda Moore is a retired school teacher, a women’s group leader, Bible teacher, and former state co-coordinator for the Christian Motorcyclists Association.

© 2018 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.