Difficult days come to both the righteous and the wicked. Though Christians will escape the Tribulation period, they have tribulation during their sojourn on this planet. Jesus said: “In the world ye shall have tribulation” (John 16:33).

Trouble is never pleasant but it may build faith. Peter speaks of the “trial of your faith.” And C. H. Spurgeon wrote: “Time and trouble try the truth. Whether a man is really good or not is discovered by his perseverance in a good way. It is easy to run well just for a spurt, but to keep up the pace for years is the difficulty.”

Christians experiencing hard times are assured of triumph. God directs the steps of His people. George Muller, the man of prayer and faith had made a note in his Bible beside Psalm 37:23: “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD…” Muller had written: “Yes, and the stops too!” He guides when we are marching and guards when it is necessary to stop and rest because of some affliction.

And then there is this thrilling promise: “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down…” (Psalm 37:24). The child of God may be down but he is never out. The Lord upholds him with His hand.

Time flows continually. This year may hold some difficult days. If so, remember that our Lord is with us in the good times and the bad: “When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee” (Isaiah 43:2).

Hard times ahead? Perhaps. But the righteous will never be forsaken. Our times are in His hands. What a safe place!