Pothole Progress

Nº 234

weekly devotions to refresh your soul by Dr. Dan Bolin - January 24, 2023

God uses suffering to purge sin from our lives, strengthen our commitment to Him, force us to depend on grace, bind us together with other believers, produce discernment, foster sensitivity, discipline our minds, spend our time wisely, stretch our hope, cause us to know Christ better, make us long for truth, lead us to repentance of sin, teach us to give thanks in time of sorrow, increase faith, and strengthen character. - Joni Eareckson Tada

As a boy I loved to fish with my dad and grandfather. We would often drive into the mountains turn off the blacktop and onto gravel. The washboard gravel would eventually give way to the potholes and bumps of a dirt road. “You have to drive the rough roads to catch big fish,” my grandfather would say. And he was right.

Anyone can fish beside a superhighway and hope for the best. But if you wanted to catch big fish – and lots of them – you must endure the obstacles of the rough road.

Life is like that. Bumps and struggles are generally the price we pay to obtain things of true value.

James tells us, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials if various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4)

When you encounter the potholes of life, it may be that God is leading you toward a wonderful destination. The rough ride may be the only way to get you to the place where you will catch the big fish God has in store for you!

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc.