A few weeks back, my sister and I had a date night. We decided we would go and support a new friend at her art show in Marksville. While there, I ran across a high school friend and her family, who I hadn’t seen since graduation. Her husband is also a local artist who was displaying some of his work. Within seconds of looking at his various pieces, an ornament caught my eye. That night we purchased two of the same design. A week or so later, I went to Griffin’s and bought another. Why would I buy three of the same ornaments? It was the statement for me.

This year has been rough, not only for me but for so many others. There has not been a week to go by that I have not heard, “2020 is Trash,” or something of the sorts. Please understand that I am not trying to minimize the obstacle or pain that anyone has experienced this year because Lord knows I have echoed many of the same phrases. However, I realized something last night, as a believer, we should expect difficult times and see them for what they are, apart of God’s will.

Sometimes we can think to ourselves, “I am obedient, so why aren’t things going better?” In this life, regardless of the year, we face discomfort or inconveniences. When we do, we immediately think either we have misread God’s will or that God has made a mistake. 2020 is not a mistake! God does not always soften our bumpy road, but he will strengthen us. God may not always provide us with luxuries, but he will always provide for our needs. When we do God’s will, we are not guaranteed comfort and convenience. But we are promised everything else, including discomfort and inconvenience. Yet, even discomfort and inconvenience have meaning in God’s plan.

So, before you throw 2020 out, remember God will guide you and provide all you need. Live each day by faith, trusting that God is in charge.