On June
10, 1770, British navigator James Cook’s ship hit a reef off the northeast
coast of Australia. He sailed the ship out into deeper water only to hit the
reef again, and this time the collision almost sank the ship. This experience
moved Cook to write in the ship’s log: “The north point [was named] Cape
Tribulation because here began all our troubles.”
Many of
us have experienced a trial that has seemed to trigger a string of other
trials. The loss of a job, the death of a loved one, an unwanted divorce, or a
decline in health could all be part of the list.
Even
though a crisis may seem to be our “Cape Tribulation,” God is still sovereign
and He most certainly is in control. It is His purpose to use tribulation to
build resilience into us. James writes: “My brethren, count it all joy when you
fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces
patience” (James 1:2-3). The word translated “patience” means to have staying
power or the ability to endure.
In the
midst of your life-changing trial, remember that God is still at work. He wants
to use your “Cape Tribulation” experience to build your character. He has
promised His grace to see you through (2 Cor. 12:9).
Faith
grows best in the winter of trial. —Rutherford (RBC)
