Stronger

Stronger...
Because sapless faith drove me to my Fortress
Stronger...
Because echoing laments opened my ears to silence
Stronger...
Because adversity harvested wiser life rhythms 
Stronger...
Because exhaustive "why's" yielded to Sovereign mystery 
Stronger...
Because the blocked tunnel schooled me in waiting
Stronger...
Because joy eclipsed helped me choose contentment
Stronger...
Because a dismal future forced me to relish moments
Stronger...
Because the dark night of my soul refined my spirit
Stronger...
Because in my lostness Adonai found me
And I will never be the same


I recently listened to a Focus on the Family broadcast in which Jim Daley's new book, "Trading Brokenness for Unbreakable Strength--Stronger" http://onedesertrose.wordpress.com/2010/09/13/turn-struggles-into-triumphs-stronger-by-jim-daly-president-of-fotf/ was highlighted.  He shared how adversity in his life, as well as his wife's, had made them stronger.

I found myself reflecting on my own seasons of adversity.  I, like every other person on this broken planet, do not welcome hardships.  But adverse cirumstances can be the stimulus for forging a stronger spirit.  I don't know about you, but I'm grateful that after all the pain has subsided, there is something to show for  it all.  That I have been schooled throughout the battle.  That is wasn't all for not.

It doesn't mean that I have forever adopted some new growth pattern, or valuable truth, never to be forgotten.  I wish that were the case!  I am always a work in progress.  I awaken to some untouched area, and yet there is always more to grasp.  The well of my spirit is never full.  So too, the trials of life never cease.  This side of heaven, there will always be a "Stronger...because".

The wild and glorious undeniable fact, is that I am forever changed by the winds of oppression.  Beauty from ashes.  Joy after mourning.  Romans 8:28.

Stronger.

What is your "Stronger...because"?