Growth in Trial

 

We were so excited for my sister when she completed her long journey of university studies and CPA exams; they were finally over. It seemed like the easy part of her journey was about to begin—applying for jobs and reaping the benefits of her hard work. But little did we know that her season of trials had not quite ended.

After many interviews and several job offers, she finally chose the position that felt like the best fit for her. She was assigned to a team that would supervise and guide her through her first major assignments. Although the work itself wasn’t too difficult, her assigned mentor was intense. She was thorough and detail-oriented, constantly examining every aspect of their tasks and pushing the team to give 120 percent. It seemed that other teams had it easier, cruising through their tasks with less stress. As a result, my sister began dreading going to work and questioned her decision to join the organization. Some members of her team couldn’t handle the pressure and left. Those few years were exhausting for her, and she often felt like she wanted to quit. What she didn’t realize was how much she had learned and grown during this high-pressure period; her professional skills were significantly refined. 

Shortly after, several promotional opportunities became available, and my sister was the top qualifier. In a short period, she was promoted to second in command to the director of the entire bureau. Everything she learned during those challenging few years has proven to be incredibly valuable in her new role.

Life teaches us that our struggles and pain can lead to profound growth and understanding, especially in our personal and spiritual development. Enduring hardships and trials grants us valuable insights and a greater understanding of God. God uses difficult times to impart important lessons and to promote our personal growth.

A classic example of this is Joseph from the Old Testament. His journey was far from easy; he faced betrayal, enslavement, and imprisonment. Yet, each challenge prepared Joseph for something great. God was refining him and guiding him toward his destiny, instilling a sense of purpose. When Joseph was eventually promoted to second in command, he made a powerful statement: "God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering." (Ge. 41:52)

Through his suffering, Joseph discovered that God was making his life meaningful. God was developing him and giving his life purpose. The trials and hardships he endured were only preparing him for greatness.