When Life's Difficulties Come

I came across some words today to live by when life's difficulties come. The Bible teaches that trials or struggles can break or solidify a person. I determine they would solidify me. I wouldn't bear things; I would use them.

Take a look at this poem by Ken Walsh as an affirmation of the Bible's encouragement during difficult times.

"Hello trouble, (you --)
I've met with you before -
So now you're here again,
Bigger than ever, larger than life,
Ready to cause more and more strife
And break me if you can.
My hands are tied behind my back
My legs they are in chains,
My health is not what it used to be
I do have aches and pains,
My responsibilities loom large
And there are those who on me depend
Whom I wouldn't see hurt for the world -
So buzz off trouble. But if you're going to stay:
My brow you may crease, my shoulders you may bow,
My mind you may scar, my nerves you may break,
Mark you I said MAY;
But mark also if you stay
I shall surely grow and grow,
And my spirit, my soul, you cannot touch,
For they belong to God and me -
And no matter what you do or say
They always will be free. "
(Ken Walsh, Sometimes I Weep, London: SCM Press Ltd, 1973, p. 112)