“Triumphs, Trials, and the Unshakable Goodness of God”

As we walk through life, one undeniable truth shines through every season: God has been so good to us—in every chapter, in every high and every low. Yet, even with this assurance, we often find ourselves overwhelmed and filled with worry when we face new trials. Why is it that despite witnessing God’s faithfulness time and again, our hearts still sink into fear and doubt when a new challenge comes?

We tend to think the worst until we hear a sliver of good news. We forget the miracles we’ve already lived through. We forget how God brought us out of situations that once felt impossible. This forgetfulness leads to anxiety, depression, and even a silent belief that perhaps this time, God won’t show up.

But the Bible tells a different story. A story of a God who knows us deeply and loves us eternally.

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” — Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV)

If we truly believe this—if we believe that God has known us even before our first breath—why do we fear? Why do we think our struggles are signs of God’s punishment or His silence?

Perhaps it’s because we wrestle with guilt. We may think, “Maybe I made a wrong choice. Maybe I sinned, and now God is punishing me.” But that is not the voice of our Father. That is the enemy whispering lies, attempting to disconnect us from the forgiveness and love already offered at the cross.

“As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” — Psalm 103:12 (NIV)

As Christians, we pray. We read the Bible. We get baptized. We celebrate Easter with joy. But do we truly believe in the core message of Easter?

Do we believe that Jesus died for me—for my sins, my shame, my well-being, my family, and yes, even my trials?

“Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering… the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” — Isaiah 53:4-5 (NIV)

If we have said, “Father, forgive me,” then we must believe He has. To doubt His forgiveness is to doubt the power of the cross. Our trials are not signs of being forsaken. Rather, they are opportunities for His glory to be revealed.

“Jesus replied, ‘This happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.’” — John 9:3 (NIV)

Sometimes, we face trials not because we’re distant from God, but because He’s drawing us closer. Our suffering becomes a platform for His power, and our triumphs become testimonies of His love.

So this Easter season, let us hold tightly to the truth:

“See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.” — Isaiah 49:16 (NIV)

You are not forgotten. You are not condemned. You are forgiven, loved, and held in the hands of a faithful God.

May these words bring comfort and renewed faith this Easter. And may we remember: our trials do not define us—His goodness does.

Amen.