Daily Devo
God's Way
By: Lisa Hodgins
Thursday, September 18, 2025
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. Isaiah 55:8
Have you ever tried to set up a new electronic device? Even when the ad says it will be "plug and play", it might take hours... When that happens, we are probably thinking; "there must be a faster way to do this."
Some people apply that same logic when they are facing a trial, thinking; "How can I end this quicker?" But consider this; God may not want us them to end them faster! He may use a trial to strengthen our endurance, or He might be working in ways we don't understand. Corrective trials reveal where we've fallen short and redirect us back towards God. Directive trials guide us past obstacles and increase our faith. We must endure both of them for our own good. When I look back at my life, I can see how both types of trials helped me. They weren’t easy, but the end result sure was worth it!
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
In a way, a trial is a test to see if we'll put our faith where our mouth is, especially in the area of "not leaning on our own understanding." Ephesians 2 says we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do kingdom work. Some translations substitute the word "artwork" for handiwork. Christ follower, you are God’s masterpiece! You were designed by Him and created by Him, and He did it for divine purposes. What is our purpose? Our assignment as Christ followers is to tell others about Jesus and expand God's kingdom.
But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. Psalm 33:11
God makes nature beautiful, but He wants to make you and I even more beautiful. After all, we are His treasured children that He loves! So don't rush through your trials or try to end them in your own power. Let God use them to mold you into His masterpiece, a beautiful piece of heavenly artwork! But remember, God can't (won't) shape us into something beautiful until we're completely surrendered to Him. Instead of rushing through your next trail, trust your Heavenly Father. He will give you everything you need to get through it, and He’ll use those trials to increase your faith.
Trust God! He will protect you and guide you past life's biggest obstacles!
Read: Proverbs 16:9, 2 Timothy 1:7