Grateful for hardships?

This past week the state of Alabama was hit hard with devastating tornadoes.  There has been a great deal of unimaginable devastation and loss.  My heart aches for those affected by this storm and I am beyond grateful that my particular area was not hit.

As I watch so many experience tremendous tribulations...I got to thinking: how would I react if I lost absolutely everything? And then I started reflecting back on the smaller hardships in my life and how I tend to react.  Let’s just say...my attitude can get pretty ugly, pretty quickly.

Over the past few months my mom has challenged me to write out seven things that I am grateful for on a daily basis.  It took a good amount of time but then I realized...not only do I need to be thankful for the joyful moments of my life, I need to thank The Lord for the hardships.  It is during those times that I am driven to my knees in absolute need of Him.  

I recently read in Jesus Calling, "Living in dependence on Me is the way to enjoy abundant life. You are learning to appreciate tough times, because they amplify your awareness of My presence..."

 We are in desperate, desperate need of the Lord’s mercy & assistance. We are human. We are weak. We are incapable of relying on our own selves. So remember- when your next hardship or time of suffering arises, be thankful - this will change your heart & attitude. We have a God who is far bigger than any of our momentary troubles - keep in mind that it is a blessing when we realize our need for Him.

                                          Romans 8:18 

                  "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth

                      comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."