On the drive to the study this morning, I was listening to a religious radio station. The hosts of the show – Roxanne and Chris – asked this questions, “How has God changed your life?”

I listened to a few listener answers. Some were expected. Some were conversion stories. Some talked about grace and washing them white as snow. Some sounded miraculous. Looking back, I can see where I think I can see God working, but like the apostle Paul, I have to say, “perhaps is why” (Philemon 1:15).

With that said, I can see God working in ways I know can only be Him. When I faced hardships, you know the ones  like the 3-Ds (disaster, disease, and death), I faced them and know with God I will continue to face them with a certain calmness and peace. I do not expect life to be without problems, Job’s story teaches me that, but I can have confidence that God will be with me through the storms to pick up the pieces and to hold me in a loving embrace. I can then count it all joy when I meet trials of various kinds, knowing that the testing of my faith produces steadfastness that when it has its full effect will lead me to a completeness. (cf. James 1:2-4).

Thank you, Father, for being there for me. Thank you for Your loving grace. Thank you for Christ. In Jesus’ name.

• Scott