Hurt and gift.....Challenges and Blessings...

“Perhaps it takes a purer faith to praise God for unrealized blessings than for those we once enjoyed or those we enjoy now.”  A. W. Tozer

Blessings and challenges sometimes coexist.  I immediately think of computers, cell phones, homeownership and wisdom.  For example, wisdom usually doesn't arrive until we are older.  But I try to cherish blessings instead of focusing on the challenges...well, most of the time.

My amazing smartphone often reminds me of blessings/challenges.  I love it...until it freezes or turns purple on the screen or freezes or turns itself off randomly...or freezes.  But it has taught me something else.

When I try to text the word "hurt," autocorrect presents the word "gift" instead!  Initially, I was not impressed...at all.

I began thinking.  Certainly, I do not enjoy being hurt or dealing with pain.  Nor do I wish pain on another precious life.  Yet living in this imperfect world inevitably brings pain, hurt, disease and loss into our lives.  I wish it didn't have to be this way.  My heart breaks when loved ones are hurting or in pain for any reason.  Yes, I also cry at commercials for abandoned, abused or ill children...or mistreated animals. 

Ironically, my greatest lessons occur during the most painful moments.  When I hurt the deepest...whether physically or otherwise, I learn the most about unconditional love, authentic faith, unshakeable hope and peace that passes all understanding.  I learn what matters most, what doesn't matter at all, who truly cares and Who remains strong when I am weak.  Priorities become obvious.  Perception is gained.  Challenges are faced.  Blessings abound.  I lean on Him more, listen to Him better, hold onto Him tighter and face each day more gratefully. 

While blessings are usually considered joyful times, I cherish the truth of the song, "Blessings"... 
"'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears?
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You're near?
What if trials of this life
Are Your mercies in disguise?"  (Laura Story)

It is my prayer that I will praise Him for each blessing...for those enjoyable...and for those that bring me closer to Him for eternity.  ♥~thl