My son has a loft bed, which his head barely reaches over the top. We were winding down for the night when I told him to change his sheets before he hopped in. I stepped out of the room, letting him struggle for a bit and when I walked back in 5 minutes later, he began showing me all the ways he cannot get the sheet to fit. He was determined to show me that because he didn’t get it in those 5 minutes, that there is no way that he will ever get it right.

I believe God is willing and waiting to show us the opportunity in the midst of what we call defeat. What keeps me so calm when my child gets frustrated is the same thing that allows God to be so calm with us when we are throwing our hands up in defeat. He sees opportunity for our character to be molded into who He designed us to be; patient, kind, loving, fearless, trusting, and able to endure the race set ahead of us.

No matter what the day may bring, the victory has already been won! We have no need to worry or whine. Needless to say, as with every situation in which my son begins with frustration, I was able to show him the opportunity made available to him. Without the struggle, is a life without strength. “That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10) Strength is found in your weakness!

What situation brought you to realization that you are stronger than you ever imagined? Comment below!

Ashley Fordinal is the Children’s Church volunteer at Family Life Church in Sulphur Springs, TX.