Hard Times for S. from Fresno

I've gotten a couple letters from S in Fresno. It sounds like he's starting from scratch - no job, no car, no money- it must be humiliating, especially after making such excellent progress. However, as he knows, the Lord is doing it and it therefore must have a purpose, and a good one.

Over the years I have prayed that God would bring whatever situations into my life that are necessary (from His perspective) to make me the person he wants me to be. I think he has answered that prayer many times and is still answering it.

We don't, I believe, develop qualities by simply understanding that we need to develop them- we (I) need the experience- hardship develops perseverance and perseverance develops character.

No hardship --> No character.

That may be oversimplifying, but I believe it's true-- I KNOW it's true in my life. The short term can be tough, but when I can thank Him for the situation and remind myself that He's refining me for His glory and my benefit- it all seems to fall into place.