This thought may have crossed your mind at some period in life, "If God is good, why does He allow bad things to happen?" Since the beginning of the human race, daily living has always involved adversity. Although life tribulations can be tough, knowing the Lord's intention for them can bring comfort and hope. God's messages found in biblical verses make it known that suffering has purpose. The Wonderful Counselor is molding His children to be like Him.

Romans 8:28-29 states, "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them. For God knew His people in advance, and He chose them to become like His Son, so that His Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters."

Here are three fundamental points to study, regarding personal hardships of life:

First, when people become saved, they continue to hold many "rough characteristics." The journey on the road to sanctification (growing in God's grace as a result of being reborn), involves the process of becoming holy and few things in life will build character like grief. Unfortunately, people rarely acquire christian maturity during good times. Instead, pain causes ungodly characteristics to surface and forces individuals to reflect on their true nature.

Secondly, the reason why the Father permits trials is to test His childrens' religious belief. Believers soon discover that tested faith is deeper and more reliable than untested faith.

Lastly, God allows difficulties so that His character, love, and power can be revealed. Throughout life's hardships, people who remain with the heavenly Father will find Him dependable and authentic.

As life's storms surface, remember His faithfulness from previous trials and rest assured that He is with you always. We are not left alone to find the solutions to our problems. As we entrust our lives to the Wonderful Counselor, He orchestrates the daily events in our lives for our benefit, even the painful ones.

No individual wishes to suffer needlessly, however, experience and sorrow will mature the christian believer. We can learn from books and from the experiences of others, but most growth occurs as a result of personal trials. As troubling events occur, sorrow and grief may seem intense. But know that He has a plan for all trials of life.

Encouraging quotes and inspirational bible messages can be found in verses from the best selling and most popular book of all time-the Holy Bible.