What is a Christian to do when faced with disappointment, disaster, or despair? Scripture teaches us that “we know all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). Yet when we encounter difficulties, we often wonder, Why? Searching for answers and learning to view “bad things” as avenues to “good things” are disciplines that God wants His children to develop as they mature spiritually. (See I Corinthians 2:14 and Romans 8:16–17.)
The Apostle Paul regarded these “tests” as opportunities to grow spiritually. Instead of despairing whenever he encountered trials, Paul said he would glory in his infirmities so that the power of Christ would rest upon him. (See II Corinthians 12:9.) As we, like Paul, choose to trust God and accept the grace He gives us, Christ’s character will be formed in us. | 
