This statement comes from Charles H. Spurgeon’s daily devotional book, Morning by Morning, that I turn to most days. It’s a sobering statement. It’s one that I must admit doesn’t excite me. After all, who in their right mind desires trials? Who desires hardships? Who desires uncertainty or discomfort? Certainly not me! And I would imagine you would agree with that sentiment.

I hope to glorify God in all that I do, but I would rather it come in moments of triumph and success and not in moments of disappointment and suffering. From where does Spurgeon get this idea that many trials provide many opportunities to bring God glory? He draws from 2 Corinthians 12:9 where we read in part, “My grace is sufficient for you.” Spurgeon draws our attention to how God’s grace is supplied and magnified “in the poverty and trials of believers.” Spurgeon goes on to write: “If, then, yours is a much-tried path, rejoice in it, because you will be better able to display the all-sufficient grace of God. As for His failing you, never dream of it- hate the thought. The God who has been sufficient until now should be trusted to the end.”