"Trusting acceptance of trials brings blessings that far outweigh them all."

for reasons that i might share later, yesterday was a really tough day that i wasn't expecting. it felt like a blow to my head and heart, and i woke up this morning exhausted and feeling like i needed a little extra encouragement. 

after reading a few psalms and a chapter in acts--we're doing a read through the Bible in a year plan with our church, new life--i decided to pick up Jesus Calling by sarah young, a devotional book that i haven't used in awhile. i curiously turned to 18 january, levi's birthday, to see what it said, to see, out of curiosity, if the day's devotion was applicable to our lives in that moment. they were, and i find great peace, comfort, and truth in reading them today:

I am leading you along the high road, but there are descents as well as ascents. In the distance you see snow-covered peaks glistening in the brilliant sunlight. Your longing to reach those peaks is good, but you must not take shortcuts. Your assignment is to follow Me, allowing Me to direct your path. Let the heights beckon you onward, but stay close to Me. 

Learn to trust Me when things go "wrong." Disruptions to your routine highlight your dependence on Me. Trusting acceptance of trials brings blessings that far outweigh them all. Walk hand in hand with Me through this day. I have lovingly planned every inch of the way. Trust does not falter when the path becomes rocky and steep. Breath deep draughts of My Presence, and hold tightly to My hand. Together we can make it!

thank you, Jesus, that we never walk alone, that you go through our trials with us, and that our suffering is never, ever in vain. i'm so thankful for your grace and blessed by your presence.