Connie has been a strong example on how to live in faithful obedience through very hard Providences. Her steadfastness and joy are always visible and contagious. It is truly a privilege to worship with her in the same church and learn from her.

Note: She also makes the most delicious cookies and ships anywhere in the States.

Faithful obedience shines brightest and is most vibrant in the backdrop of personal trials. The faithfulness of a humble and obedient believer is used by God to display His glory.

Therefore our goal in each trial should be to give glory to God. Spend time in God‘s word and in prayer and ask Him to complete His work through you.

Give glory to the Father: The sovereignty of God means that every
atom is under His control. Therefore, every minute detail of each affliction is from my gracious heavenly Father. He has designed my life perfectly for me. He has also ordained a wonderful balance between trial and refreshment in this life.

Give glory to the Son: Jesus is described as the Good Shepherd, who tenderly cares for his sheep. Romans 8:35-37 lists more trials then we will ever see in our lives. And yet, none of them can separate us from His love. Also give glory to Christ for His redemptive work on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. Therefore, when we give way to doubt and despair in trials, we can seek His forgiveness.

Give glory to the Spirit: We give glory to Him for His effectual work of comfort, healing, and sustaining grace. He convicts us of sin and then refreshes our soul in a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Dear Sisters, are you suffering? Develop the discipline of glorifying God in your trials. Then your present hardships will appear light and momentary (and in fact, even joy-filled) compared to the weight of glory, beyond all comparison (2 Cor. 4:17, James 1:2).

Soli Deo Gloria

Connie Rosendahl