Sun and Clouds Together
…we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
Romans 5:3-5 CSB
I love all beach sunrises—even the gray ones—because… well, we’re at the beach. But my absolute favorite is when sunshine and clouds meet. There’s nothing quite like the beauty of colors revealed as sunlight breaks through the clouds. Only a Creator God could design something so breathtaking.
As I watch that sky, I am reminded of how beauty often shows up in both the joy-filled, sunny days and the gray, difficult days of life.
Affliction builds our strength, faith, and character as we trust God to work in and through each one. I know, without a doubt, I wouldn’t know or trust Jesus the way I do if I hadn’t walked through hard seasons. While I don’t look forward to the next crisis, I know the Lord will be with me—growing me and deepening our relationship.
Romans 5 reminds us that God even offers joy in our suffering: “we rejoice in our afflictions.” Maybe not in the thick of the storm, but when we see how God works through our pain—guiding, comforting, and remaining faithful—we truly can rejoice.
In Elizabeth Woodson’s book, Embrace Your Life, she quotes Tony Evans: Faith is acting like it is so even when it is not so in order that it might be so because God said so.
What crisis are you facing right now? Can you let Him carry you through it, trusting that He’ll be glorified? Can you ask Him to reveal more of Himself and teach you something new? Can you trust Him to bring purpose out of this season?
Clear skies are beautiful—but skies with both sun and clouds display an even greater glory.
Jesus, thank you for bringing endurance, character and hope through affliction.
Chris Adams
