The Rollercoaster Ride of Your Life

Good morning, my friend!  Good morning, Father!

"When things are going well for you, be glad, and when trouble comes, just remember: God sends both happiness and trouble; you never know what is going to happen next." - Ecclesiastes 7:14  

When I read a book I would consider the book boring if only good things happened in the story.  It is the conflict and rollercoaster of events that makes the story interesting.  It makes for a great story to have all sorts of twists, turns and conflict.  In my own life, however, I just want smooth sailing every day...no drama...no trauma...no pain.  But it is through those ups and downs that You give us the opportunity to live a life of adventure and impact.  We are afforded the opportunity to learn about You, ourselves and our fellow man, and we have the choice to become "bitter" or "better" as a result of our response to them.  

In this rollercoaster of life, it can come down to whether we trust that the ones who designed it and maintain it know what they were doing.  If we don’t trust either one of those people, the ride can be a white-knuckled terrifying experience.  If we know the designer and those performing the maintenance are responsible, we can throw our hands in the air and enjoy an exhilarating experience.

Father, I lift my friend.  You are the architect and keeper of their life.  There are times they travel in darkness and their life is shaken and takes unexpected turns.  It can be frightening to not know what lies ahead.  Thank You that they are safe in Your hands.  “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." - John 16:33.  On this tumultuous journey, remind them of Your presence.  Be with them, offering peace and safety.  Grow their trust in You, that their hands tightly clenched, clinging for dear life to anything that appears to be stabile, would instead be thrown into the air as they enjoy the ride.  Give them eyes to see You as their helper and protector, and the faith to believe You are good and will get them safely home. 

“My friends, consider yourselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come your way, for you know that when your faith succeeds in facing such trials, the result is the ability to endure. Make sure that your endurance carries you all the way without failing, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." - James 1:2-4.  In Jesus Name  ❤️

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