TRIALS AND ADVERSITIES

There is no victory without a battle. There is no crown without a victory. A true captain is proven by a tempest at sea. When there is no danger, the trial is worthless; but when there is great danger, the test is real.

Trials, tests and battles are meant to strengthen us, not weaken us. If we are victorious, we emerge with greater strength: "My grace is enough for you; for strength is made perfect by weakness, Christ tells St. Paul. And so, when weakness creeps upon us, it is then that our strength is made perfect. "The just man is proven by the trial of tribulation."

So, while those without faith complain and grumble in adversity, the faithful are made even stronger by suffering. 

St. Cyprian

(06-09-03)