Abide with Me

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Often great good comes out of difficult experiences.

I'm thoroughly enjoying reading through Then Sings My Soul:  150 of the World's Greatest Hymn Stories by Robert J. Morgan.  It's interesting that so many of the famous hymn writers went through severe trials, many of a physical nature.  The words they penned during those times continue to encourage Christians today.

I'm reminded that it's often in our times of trial and tribulation that we draw closer to God.  While we wouldn't ask for those days, yet it's often when we experience the sweetest and strongest growth in our spiritual life.  Looking back over 17 years ago to the loss of our first baby, I know that the lessons the Lord so lovingly taught us in those months are ones that have lasted these many years. 

Reading the hymn history of Abide with Me by Henry F. Lyte yesterday, I was encouraged by these words.

I need Thy presence every passing hour;
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s pow’r?
Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.

Whether or not we're currently facing a trial, how we need His presence, His grace, and His guidance each and every day of our lives.