I was not feeling very thankful as I spent several sleepless nights with my newborn earlier this year. I was convinced I was the only person in the world awake at times enduring such a struggle. I found myself very discouraged; this was supposed to be a joyful time. I decided to write down Bible verses and prayers on several post-it notes. I placed these post-it notes all over my daughter’s room as a constant reminder to remain steadfast through this short trial. Crazy enough, that sweet baby decided to start sleeping much better within days. Thank you, Jesus! 

The difficult seasons provide a clear opportunity to draw closer to the Lord. I’ve found this to be true when I take the time to reflect on my life and what has shaped me as a Christian. Sometimes it takes a season of trial to produce an obvious need for the Lord. A need for the Lord can be found anywhere at any time. If you already follow Jesus, then the difficult seasons can produce fruits of the spirit and steadfastness of faith. We all need Jesus for our hard circumstances. I am thankful for a God that is present and faithful through all seasons of life.

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭