Isaiah 55:2 | Stephen L Hufman

Looking back from Boulder Pass, Glacier National Park

And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance, and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5

Who in their right mind exults in tribulation? From my present vantage point, it is hard to understand the truth in Romans 5. I have to accept by faith that all the hardship has purpose and value in my life. Someday I will look back from the gates of heaven and see with clarity that the difficult trials were a blessing producing in me perseverance, character and hope. What I previously considered life’s travails were actually God’s love being poured out to bring me to the heights of heaven.

On the other hand, those who do not put their hope and trust in God will at the end of life see the tribulations as a curse, not a blessing. All the ups and downs of life will have produced nothing of value.

Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. Isaiah 55:2

Crack by crack the glacier recedes

It’s the little cracks that will cause the fall.
One upon another to bring down the wall.
Of themselves hardly a worry,
But they combine to a diabolical fury.

Such great loss from such little things.
Who knew the curse disobedience brings.
Enslaved to follow this eroding course,
What might’ve been is my remorse.

Why spend money on what is not bread,
and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,
and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Isaiah 55:2 NIV

Little crumbs can become a great meal,
One after another to forge armor of steel.
Of themselves hard to consider,
O the blessing they will come to deliver.

Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. Matthew 7:24 NIV

Such great gain from such little things,
God tells us the riches obedience brings.
Who knew the glory it would unlock,
A temple to God built block upon rock.