Trials come SO THAT…. (book giveaway & free stuff!)

When I realized exactly what “so that” was referring to,  I became so intrigued.

I had never given any creed to that little two-word phrase in the Bible, or how many countless times it appears, until my friend Wendy brought it to life in her new bible study book Living So That: Making Faith Filled Choices in the Midst of a Messy Life. 

As I read through the book, I loved seeing the reality of how every word in the Bible was written “so that” something could be learned, and “so that” we could grow in our faith. Every word had a purpose that fulfills something important to our life. I loved all the chapters in Wendy’s book, and the verses and study questions really made you think. But if I had to pick my favorite chapter, I would pick Chapter Four, titled Trials Come So That…

Recently at a women’s retreat where I was speaking, a woman came up to me afterwards to share how God had spoken to her heart during the event.  In talking, she made a comment that stuck with me. During my messages, I had shared some very difficult experiences I had gone through, and how God had worked in them, and she stated how she couldn’t believe how much I had gone through at such a young age.  My first thought was, “Yes! She said I was young.” Smiles.

But after she walked away, I considered more about what she had said, and found myself thinking  “Yeah, I actually have been through a lot. No fair!” Maybe you can relate to feeling that way too. Over a period of several years, I have found myself in many valleys filled with family issues, deaths, illnesses of loved ones, financial hardship, marital challenges, parenting stressors, problems with people, difficult work circumstances, heartache, personal setbacks….

As I pondered all that I’ve experienced, I could have begun questioning God’s ways. But I quickly remembered that I was there, on that particular weekend in that particular church,  “so that” God could use the peace and joy I have found in the midst of my trials, and the purpose that has blossomed out of them,  to encourage others to embrace those gifts in their own lives.

James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”  I’m certainly not going to say I considered all those problems as joyful. That would be a lie. But I can say I have seen proof that all that testing of my joy helped me mature spiritually,  strengthen my faith walk and pull me closer to God as I encountered His power and loving intervention.

I can now look back and see that God allowed parenting challenges, “so that” I could mature as a parent and lean on Him for guidance instead of my own emotions. He allowed marital challenges, “so that” my husband and I would need to look to Him for strength and the will to persevere, and “so that” we could spiritually grow as a couple. He purposed for difficult circumstances of my past to become my testimony, “so that” I could encourage others who felt hopeless or worthless.  He allowed unfair things to happen to me at work and in my personal life, “so that” I could work on softening my heart and learning to forgive those who hurt me.

There are by far too many “so that” lessons in my life to list, but this chapter in Wendy’s book served as a reminder of how good God really is and helped me remember that He does all things and said every holy Word and instruction “so that” we can come to know Him more.

Wendy has graciously offered to allow me to give away one of her books today. To enter to win your own copy of Wendy’s study, leave a comment similar to one I may have shared above, but sharing your own “so that” statement. Briefly share how God has used a particular circumstance or situation for a specific purpose so that you could learn something valuable or see Him at work.

BookCover.3d[1] copyIf you are an email subscriber, please  CLICK HERE to return to my blog and enter to win. All entries must be submitted on my blog only.  Winner to be announced on Friday March 20th.

Check out these other great offers too!

Wendy’s book will be the subject of the next Proverbs 31 Online Bible Study, beginning April 6th. If you’d like to get involved click here to sign up, and get your sneak peek at Chapter One of ‘Living So That’ by clicking here! 

Wendy is also giving away a great free companion devotional called Five Days to a Faith-Full Life, click here for the free download

105 Comments

  1. Gena C on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:07 am

    I have survived rape, death of a child, generations of divorce,parenting difficulties so that I could share, encourage and love others going through the same. I find joy in Christ so that others can see Him through me!



    • tmiles on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:16 am

      Gena – bless your heart! Sometimes it does seem we get more than our fair share of troubles and pain. So sorry for all you’ve gone through, but I got chill bumps reading how God is using your past “so that” you can glorify Him and touch the lives of others!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:47 pm

      Gena, God has given you His perspective on your trials and I LOVE that!! What a testimony you have, one God will continue to use in powerful ways. We reveal Jesus strongest when we shine His JOY in the midst of our trials. Thank you so much for sharing today!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  2. Leslie M on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:12 am

    I dealt with emotional abuse by a family friend who attacked not only myself but also my children and husband which led to me becoming clinically depressed and going to see a Christian Counselor SO THAT God could reawaken my dream to become a counselor and help and encourage other women through Him. I am now leaning on Him to provide the finances to go back to school AND the strength and wisdom to make it through school at 50!



    • tmiles on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:17 am

      Leslie – what a terrible thing to happen, but its so awesome to see God using it “so that” He could equip you to serve in such a unique and experienced way! Congrats on going back to school!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:51 pm

      Leslie, my heart hurts as I read your first sentence but then it turned to singing words of praise to see how God used your terrible trial to redirect you back to the calling He had on your life from before time began. But now you will enter into that calling with a greater compassion and understanding then you ever would have had before. Your clients will trust you more because you have walked in their shoes. I pray Jehovah Jireh, God or Provider, will provide for your every need as you seek His provision for school!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  3. Lisa Moore on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:13 am

    In 2009 my husband moved to California with the plan that I would stay behind with two teenage daughters until our house sold. Many trials happened during that time. I found myself doubting God’s love and couldn’t understand why things had worked out this way. After 4 1/2 years, my husband took a leave of absence from his job to come home. He has found work in our town however we have had to go through bankruptcy and a huge decrease in income. God has helped our marriage to stay strong throughout this time. We are back in church and loving the Lord. We are seeking God’s direction for our future as it seems that we may have to make some difficult decisions regarding our jobs. We are trusting God to lead and guide us in this process.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:54 pm

      Lisa, what a beautiful story!! Such a testimony to a Christ-centered marriage…one that stays together no matter what, that understands the door is locked from the outside! Thank you for sharing. I know you have encouraged a woman today who is struggling in her marriage due to difficult circumstances. You have equipped and encouraged her that seeking God in the midst is the answer and believing Him to be faithful.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  4. JanefromSC on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:15 am

    I have gone through so much too Gena and Tracie. Loss of a child, loss of a home, financial problems,wayward children, tax problems, surgeries, a husband with quadruple bypass and then days later suffered a stroke, loss of my parents – one to suicide so that I could walk the journey that others are faced with. At the time you do not see how God is working and why but as you get older and time goes on …. you learn wisdom and leaning on God through difficulties, seeking Him in all the decisions you make and you finally realize that JESUS IS ALL YOU NEED so that you can deal with life!!!



    • tmiles on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:18 am

      Jane, so sorry as well for all you have gone through. Wow. But what a joy it is to see that God can orchestrate goodness out of heartache so that we can grow spiritually and make it through the hardest times of life. Thank you for sharing!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:56 pm

      Amen!! Jane, you spoke the most beautiful truth…Jesus is the answer. He is enough. He is ABLE. He is our Portion. Our All in All. All we need. You are a living testimony of His faithfulness!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  5. Kathi Whittamore on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:17 am

    I was raped and abused emotionally. When I was a teenager I got pregnant and had an abortion. Now that I am a Christian and part of the intercessory prayer team at our church we’ve had people come in for prayer. One specific one I remember is a lady that came in and wasn’t able to forgive herself. I felt a pounding in my chest and knew after talking with a prayer partner that this lady needed to hear my story “so that” she could be free from her past. I told her that I had an abortion and God forgave me and He could and wanted to forgive her. To this day she is free!! God is so good!! What an AWESOME God we serve!!



    • tmiles on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:29 am

      Kathi – you have no idea how that blesses my heart! I too know first hand the power of transparently sharing with a woman who is trapped by her own condemnation of her choices and watching God move in their heart. Nothing is better! How wonderful to see God use such horrific circumstances for good.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:59 pm

      Kathi, how pleased the Lord is you have taken so much pain and ugliness and surrendered it to Him to be used for His honor and His glory. And isn’t it a gift when He gives us the opportunity to pray someone into FREEDOM from the stronghold of unforgiveness!? You, sweet friend, are a beautiful soul, a prayer warrior that the Lord is going to use many times over to bring women to a place of healing and freedom.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  6. Elaine Segstro on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:19 am

    I was allowed to lose a job so that God could use me elsewhere. It opened up doors for me, but before that, I had some valuable ‘training’ and ‘learning’ and ‘leaning’ time.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 1:01 pm

      Such a powerful sentence, “God allowed me to lose of job.” God is sovereign, and He sometimes allows hard things in our lives, but when we surrender our hard place and trust Him in the midst, looking to His Word for answers and His Spirit for sustaining and direction, He will bring us out the other side with a powerful testimony.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  7. Billie Jo Marker on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:20 am

    My husband and I went through a very dark time of alienation from his family. We thought that was the hardest thing we had ever gone through. And it was. Until we walked through a very dark time of emotional separation in our marriage. God redeemed our marriage in such a powerful way “so that” we could minister to other hurting marriages that He brought across our paths. We are still waiting to see the “so that” of His plan for the family separation that He has not yet redeemed……..however, my heart is inclined to believe that for now, it is God’s best for us because countless blessings have bloomed from that season of uprooting and replanting us. Our story for God’s Glory!



    • tmiles on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:31 am

      Billie Jo – I love that you shared how you haven’t yet caught a glimpse of the “so that” purpose for the family situation. Just a great reminder to continue trusting God even when we cant see His full plan yet. I am confident you are a blessing to many marriages through what you have been learned and overcome.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 1:05 pm

      I agree with Tracie. Your strong faith and trust in God, even when you haven’t come out the other side, is such a great example for all of us!! He has a plan even when we can’t see it with our eyes or grasp it in our hands! He promises to work all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. We must TRUST His promises, REMEMBER when He was faithful in the past and persevere!! I pray God continue to use you to bless and encourage many and I join you in anticipating the great story He will bring to fruition from this separation.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  8. TAMMY on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:21 am

    I believe the financial problems my husband and I have been through has happened so that we would grow closer spiritually. In fact, it was all the stress from these issues, that made my husband turn his heart and life over to God in 2009. Talking about “Blessings in Disguise”.



    • tmiles on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:31 am

      All I can saw is WOW! Awesome.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 1:06 pm

      Oh, that is one of my favorite Laura Story songs! Praising God for His salvation!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  9. Lauren on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:22 am

    Growing up, we were verbally and physically abused by our parents. I moved out and spent the next decade in two very physically, emotionally and verbally abusive relationships, because I didn’t believe I deserved anything better. I was almost killed twice. I ended up moving to a new state where I knew nobody and changing my name so I wouldn’t be found once I did finally leave. Add in five years of therapy for PTSD, which I still struggle with. In my 30s, I began to develop a relationship with God. It took a long time (and I do still struggle with it) to see that I do have worth in His eyes. I met and married a wonderfully supportive man and together we have 4 wonderful children. I truly believe that my experiences have made me not only appreciate him that much more, but I don’t take him for granted either. We have gone through many struggles (mostly financial – continue to struggle a lot financially), but we remain a very strong unit and I truly believe it’s God’s hand holding us together. I continue to work on my relationship with God and am learning to give my life to Him, because His plans are always better than my plans. Thank you for a chance to win this book. I would love to read it.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 1:08 pm

      Lauren, what an incredible story of God’s REDEEMING power.!! Thank you for sharing your story with us today. I pray it brings hope and encouragement to many who feel there is no hope!! With God …. we always have HOPE. He promises to never leave us or forsake us!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  10. Nikki S. on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:27 am

    My first year of marriage included a move out of state (only to find out within the first two weeks that my husband’s employer was not ethical and he had to quit his job), then moving in with my in-laws because neither of us were employed, two miscarriages, my father-in-law being diagnosed and dying of cancer…so that, my husband and I could realize that the only thing that cannot be taken away from us is our hope and trust in the Lord and our salvation through Jesus Christ. Our marriage is solid because we built it that first year on the Solid Rock and our parenting revolves around raising our six children up in faith.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:28 pm

      Sweet Nikki, God is giving you an amazing testimony to share with young married couples and young parents! There is no better ROCK to stand on than Christ!!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  11. Karen Carlson on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:28 am

    I had fallen in love with a boy in high school, we dated for four years, he broke up with me at the end of every school year. I kept praying that God would fix “things”. God didn’t seem to hear my prayers and I kept having my heart broken. My first job after college was located in an area where there were only two single Christian men. My friends thought one of the men was “perfect” for me. I went on several dates with him, but I didn’t feel that “spark” that I was expecting. I found myself faced with a decision. Did I want to be married so much that I would marry a man who might not be a good husband for me, or would I trust God and be happy staying single. I gave up my plans for marriage and told God that I would trust Him. A month later, God sent a man to me and four dates later we were married. I believe that God allowed me to date those two men so that I would understand the what a blessing it was to marry the man that the Lord in His wisdom, at picked out for me. We have been married for 25 years and never had an argument or fight. God gave me the most amazing gift when He gave me Curt, who has loved me with an unconditional love just like my Father in heaven!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:30 pm

      Such a testimony to “waiting upon the Lord” because His plans are always best. Patience is sooo hard but sooo worth it!! Praising God for your marriage today and may He use you to encourage and teach others about godly marriage.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  12. Stephanie on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:30 am

    One very intense trial I have gone through is being misunderstood and falsely accused in some relationships. I realize that God allowed me to go through that horrendous personal battle, which I would have never expected, to help me understand Jesus’ pure love and forgiveness! Jesus was betrayed, misunderstood, and falsely accused. He freely loved and freely forgave! We are commanded tondo the same. Easier said than done but with Chist’s help, we can! Loved the “so that” blog!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:31 pm

      Yes, Stephanie, there is complete freedom in forgiveness!!! There are many people, especially women, who feel misunderstood. I pray your story will encourage them today.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  13. Mandy Avery on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:45 am

    My father passed two weeks ago and I was able to show the love of Jesus because of his death, I told of God.s promise to believers and shared the gospel and a link to Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort.s website. I also know of emotional abuse due to my parent who had been sexually and physically abused. My mother was abused so she unfortunately said a lot of hurtful things and accused both my dads of molesting me because she had been molested. My real dad who just passed away was a former alcohlic and a woman beater. He accepted Christ and was redeemed and I always had a great relationship with him. I forgave him as well as my mother and was able to show Gods love and purpose. As well as trusting Him with big things as well as with little things. I moved 3 years ago away from my church where i was saved and very committed and an active server to across the country. I had never been far away from where i grew up and all my family, friends, church was. I did not want to move from a very rural environment to one of the top 5 cities in the country. But i continue to trust God and praise Him daily even when the praising is in tears. I know the so that is right around the corner and i continue to praise Him so that others can see Him in me.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:33 pm

      Mandy, thank you for sharing your story! I do pray with you for God to even now be planting the seeds and opening doors to new relationships and new places to bring you to your “so that” in your move. He is a faithful God and promises that when we seek Him with all our hearts, we will find Him!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  14. Jessica on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:51 am

    It is not a coincidence that those words ‘so that’ have been on my mind the past couple of days not even knowing about this book. I have been through my share of struggles as a single mother trying to make it in this temporary home of ours. And at times I have asked myself, “What is it all for?”. SO THAT. So that we can enter the kingdom of God. I have been on a prayer journaling journey for 3 months, reading the Word and journaling my prayers. It has given me this new understanding of those words ‘so that’. I have received peace when chaos arises, and found joy when things don’t go the way my feeble mind thinks they should. But when I see the ‘so that’ results of the chaos and trials, it makes it all worth it. I recently received a grand promotion at work very unexpectedly to me. But my earthly father reminded me that this is not unexpected to my heavenly father. He placed me here so that I can do my work “as for working for the Lord” and this promotion has been a reward. I am so thankful for the blessings, the trials, the chaos, everything and anything that brings glory to God.
    I am so excited to read this book!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:35 pm

      Jessica, this is a great SO THAT story. And I love how He was showing you this before you ever saw the book or its title. That is how our God works. He affirms and confirms what He is teaching us. I can’t wait for you to read it because I think it will have even greater meaning for you. 🙂

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  15. Deb on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:52 am

    Five years ago my husband of 31 years was diagnosed with colon cancer. The doctors told us is was uncurable – but treatable. So set out on this new journey together. Everytime we would go to our scheduled appointments we would witness such sickness – people so very ill they could barely hold their heads up! My thoughts would wonder when Jim would look like that. Right now he looked so healthy, to the point of feeling guilty. Life was such a whirlwind……attending dr. visits, more tests and everywhere we turned, more bad news.

    On a Thursday after about 2-3 cancer treatments Jim decided he was ready to go back to work the following Monday. Friday brought about a change and discomfort and Saturday was worse. We decided that it was time to call our doctor and ultimately we ended up in the ER. We told our children that we would be back home in a few hours after their dad was “checked-out” by the doctor. Jim never made it back home. He was taken to his eternal home the next day – Easter Sunday evening.

    There are several other events that took place between Sat. and Sun., but GOD was so merciful to Jim. Had Jim lived, his life would have been severly changed for the worse and would have still had to endure chemo. But GOD saw fit to allow Jim to go on to heaven. No, it was not the choice we wanted, but it was the very BEST result that could have happened.

    Five years later, I am a newly wed, married to a very Godly man. I truly believe with all my heart that my new husband is a gift given by GOD as an earthly reward for walking in obedience with Him, trusting Him when the road was not to be seen and continuing on when it would have been so much easier to close the drapes in my home, lock the door, never to emerge again.

    Now, I can use the pain that I have endured so that others may find comfort, peace, and hope when tragedy hits. We have all been placed here……for such a time as this.

    Sincerely,
    Deb



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:37 pm

      Deb, your story brings tears to my eyes. The pain of losing someone you love so dearly I cannot even fathom. And then for you to see God in the midst of the loss and trust Him is inspiring and beautiful!! And I love how God blessed you again with another wonderful man in your life. I pray God will use your story mightily to bring comfort and hope to women walking where you once walked.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  16. Brenda S. on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:57 am

    My mind went back to Joseph in the Bible, he had so much tragedy in his life. One tragic event after another – but He allowed God to use him to impact the lives of those He came in contact with. He didn’t become bitter. Instead He drew close to the Lord and the Lord used him in a great and mighty way. And because of His excellent testimony, He is still an encouragement to all of us who read God’s Word.

    Sometimes we privilidged to see the culmination of God’s Plan as it comes together as in the Story of Joseph & His family.

    Gen 50:20
    But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

    But sometimes, we will not know until we reach Heaven.

    Our family is dealing with Lung Cancer in my husband (who has never smoked). His Cancer has not responded to Chemo, instead we have found more spreading in his body. I can’t say, we haven’t ask “Why?”. But I can my Husband & I both have decided to say as the 3 Hebrew Children, We Know our God is able….. but if He chooses not to heal. We are still going to keep serving, trusting, and praising our wonderful Savior.

    So that at the end of our race, we can remain Faithful. And maybe an encouragement to others, that must walk this path also.



    • tmiles on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:15 am

      Brenda, your faith and positive attitude is incredible. We would all have to wonder if we could have this attitude when faced with similar fears and uncertainties. I pray God does choose to heal your husband fully and that He will make His Presence known to you both as your walk through this difficult journey.



    • Holly Hartsell on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:33 am

      I have chills reading this. Joseph’s story is one that I have learned well this past year. It gives me great hope and comfort. Funny how you can read something time and again only to see it for the first time in a different light alltogether! I love your faith and dedication…. Prayers for your husband and your precious family!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:41 pm

      Thank you for sharing one my favorite stories from Scripture.

      Brenda, your strength and faith truly amaze and inspire me. I know I too would ask the whys…its natural. But to be able to then surrender the whys to the Lord and trust His plan is the exact place the Lord wants you so that He can work in and through you both. I pray right now for a miracle healing, knowing our God is ABLE!! But until that time, I pray He will continue to be the Strength of BOTH of your hearts and your Portion forever. 🙂

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  17. Nellie on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:59 am

    I feel that we all go through “so that” moments every day in order to help others get through there “so that” moments. I was molested as a child, I was a teen parent, I was beaten by my husband and I have learned from all of these things and put my trust in God to be a better person. Since I have first hand experienced these things I can help others that are going through them at this season in their lives. Things happen in our lives to make us the people we are today and it is our choice to either have hate or love and trust God. I am so glad that I trust God and because of him I can forgive. These “so that” moments are not easy, and I sometimes respond in the wrong way, but I am so glad that my God still forgives me and still loves me.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:44 pm

      Your life is a living example of 2 Corinthians 1:3-4…”Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ…God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our afflictions SO THAT we will be able to comfort those in ANY affliction….” Thank you for sharing.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  18. Pam on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:59 am

    This is great insight into those two little words “so that.”



  19. Courtney on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:01 am

    I honestly believe we go through trials so that we can become closer to God. I can honestly admit when things are going well, I sometimes don’t praise God and spend time with him as much. He’s allowed some things to happen to me recently to shake me up and get my attention. At one time, I thought the world of my husband. Instead of depending on God for everything, I looked to my husband. Who could have imagined that I husband was having an affair, and would eventually ask me to leave our home, take my car, and close all of our joint accounts. Did I mention we moved to a new city where I knew no one?!? Through this trial, God has brought me closer to Him and reminding me that He will never leave me. He will provide all my needs. He’s also led me to a wonderful church home, and place awesome Christian friends in my life. I can’t say things are not hard, however with Him, it gets a little easier each day.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:47 pm

      Courtney, I am so sorry for the hurt and pain your husband’s choices have caused you, I pray the Lord continues to pour out His healing balm on your precious heart and heals it fully and completely. And I praise Him for how you have CHOSEN to see Him in the midst and look to Him for help and provision. And it seems He has been faithful to provide for you in this next phase of your journey with Him. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing today. I know your story has encouraged other women walking in your shoes.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  20. Ellen Cole on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:08 am

    My parents “MADE” me go to church every Sunday when I was growing up. Dad was the organist and choir director at church, so attendance was a family requirement. When I was young, it was fine…but when I became a teenager/young adult, there were many Sundays when I would have much preferred sleeping in! I’ve since learned that those Sundays that seemed such a trial at the time were essential SO THAT I could one day have the strength to survive the loss of my parents…Dad died when I was 37 and Mom when I was 45. I took great comfort in the sameness of church then. When life was crumbling around me, I knew that the worship service on Sunday would always follow the same order…the same hymns…the same Lord’s Prayer…the same doxology. It became an oasis for me in a very difficult time. I will never stop missing my parents, but my faith has grown stronger every day since their deaths and I look forward to the time we will be reunited.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:09 pm

      Ellen, what a precious story! I have never thought of worship being an oasis of sorts for those who need that reminder, that consistency, that safe haven. Thank you for sharing.

      Blessings,



  21. Jaydnn on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:15 am

    The “so that” is working itself out in my life now. Will have to stay tuned.



  22. Rachel Fisher on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:26 am

    It was hard to see in the beginning but a cancer diagnosis was truly a blessing in disguise. I know that this trial was mine because I could handle it and for God to teach me how to live “so that” people could see His grace and His strength. When I went in for my first lumpectomy, I came upon a verse that has since become my mantra: “When I am afraid, I will trust in You” Ps 56:3.
    On the other side of cancer now, I live so that others will see God gives strength and in the midst of the storm, peace.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:11 pm

      Amen!! Praising the Lord for your healing and your testimony. May He open many doors for you to share your story and be a blessing and inspiration for others walking through cancer.

      blessings,

      Wendy



  23. Kris Konick on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:29 am

    “So that” – everything in my life!!!! From learning everything the wrong way to either having tried it or attempted it or had it happen, being able to say hey if he can rescue me he can rescue ANYBODY! And the hope that comes from working with youth, knowing they will have to make their own mistakes but having the heart to speak truth to them hoping that they will live life more fully and with way less consequences than I do.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:12 pm

      Kris, what a gift your church has in you…a wise woman who desires to pour her wisdom and faith into the lives of the next generation!! May He continue to use you mightily!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  24. Holly Sutton on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:32 am

    Last year I was told I had cancer. At 32 years of age, my life came to a screeching halt as I faced multiple surgeries, a skin graft and a very long road to recovery. Having just hit the one year anniversary of that news, I’m just starting to process the emotions and the questions from this experience. I believe I had to face this so that I could learn to be still and know God….so that my compassion for hurting people would run even deeper….so that I would spend time just being with God and not be as caught up in doing for God.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:14 pm

      Holly, these are all very powerful lessons on their own. I love that the Lord used this trial to teach them all!! Praying Jehovah Rapha, God our Healer, will bring you to a place of perfect healing from your cancer and open doors for you to use your story to bring His hope and healing to other hurting women.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  25. Lucretia s on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:33 am

    I have been experiencingsignificant trials at work…God is using these trials so that i can show my kids and non-believing husband that the only way to make it through trials and remain sane is through Him who strengthens me.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:15 pm

      Amen! We can do ALL things through Christ Who strengthens us. May He continue to strengthen you so that you can model what it means to walk in faith trusting our Sovereign God.

      W



  26. Kari in AZ on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:42 am

    Powerful message! Recently, I’ve gone through some pretty troubled times with my teenage son, “so that” God could teach me to trust in Him in everything. I don’t think I could have made it through without Him!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:16 pm

      I have walked down that road, and through prayer and communication, God brought my daughter and I through with flying colors! She is a junior in college now and we could not be any closer and her faith is strong and secure.

      W



  27. Holly Hartsell on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:04 am

    I absolutely believe that things come to us SO THAT we become who God is shaping us into, and SO THAT our testimonies can help others through His glory! My story, like many others goes back to when I was 18 and found out I had cancer. I knew pretty quickly that my life would never be the same. Just having been through that alone is enough to completely rethink what the most important things in life are. Over the past 15 years I’ve had numerous herniated discs, sinus surgeries, crazy cysts and abcesses requiring surgeries in even crazier places. Each time, I would hear myself asking… “Why me?” and each time, I seem to get the same answer…. “So that…..” from God. But eventually, the upper story unfolds and my lower story begins to make sense. The biggest challenge of my life when it comes to understanding has come in this past year. I have lost 3 people very near and dear to my heart (2 of them extremely unexpected, one of them- my dad). I’m still struggling with the “Why them?” but I know that it is “So that…” I do wish these things came with a direct note from God explaining why right away. But, I also know that if nothing else comes from these unexpected losses, I know for that me, as well as many other people close to these who have passed on, I’ve grown so much closer to God and I crave His wisdom and guidence to get through every day. I would love to read the book and be able to recommend it to others who have suffered loss with me this past year. Thanks!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:19 pm

      Holly, I am so sorry for your losses. It is so hard to lose those we love. But we do have a God who promises to comfort those who mourn with His AMAZING comfort and compassion! I pray He will continue to meet you in your grief during those “why” times, and I pray He will use your pain to bring hope and healing to others as you share with others how He has carried you through.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  28. Karen on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:15 am

    Never thought about it in this way “So that”, I will be looking at the trials differently.



  29. cindy on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:15 am

    I have struggled with grief as to the loss of my moher recenly and theloss of my marriage.. I believe “so that” I would get his attention and get to my knees.. andpray.. He has provided me strength and continues to.



  30. Amy B on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:19 am

    My daughter has a chronic, painful bone disease. I believe He has allowed this illness and the needed surgeries so that she and I (and the rest of our family) would trust in Him and grow in our faith.



  31. Crystal on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:21 am

    God uses our trials sometimes SO THAT we will know the meaning of true JOY, Jesus Only You. I pray that God will use me, an ordinary servant, SO THAT I can make an extraordinary impact.



  32. Dottie on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:24 am

    So that . . . I will deepen my relationship with Jesus Christ as I go through the struggles of a Mom, who wants to make everything right in my children’s lives since their father died. God has been faithful so that . . . I will trust Him in ALL of what I see and hear. He really does have the greater plan for them, for me. And His love is so great.



  33. Leslie K on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:48 am

    I went through challenges with substance abuse that ruined my marriage, severely messed up my relationsip with my daughters, and left me homeless and broke. I did not break though, because God chose to save me–many times. I’m persevering and have come a long way. I trust in God and each and every day try to be more like him and keep my mind and heart open, although I sometimes do wish I could change things.



  34. Susan S on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:51 am

    The trials I have been experiencing lately “so that” my husband would look at me and tell me that one of the things he admires about me is how strong my faith is.



  35. Marlene on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:53 am

    God has allowed struggles in my life SO THAT my heart could be softened toward myself and others and SO THAT I can encourage others to stay close to Him, even when things seem overwhelming!



  36. Becky on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:58 am

    I have come to learn that God has put challenges in our financial situation SO THAT we rely on Him and better communicate with each other as well.



  37. Jess F on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:03 pm

    I believe the trial I am going through are SO THAT I learn to fully trust HIM instead of myself. SO THAT I fully rely on HIM.



  38. Stephanie on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:17 pm

    This is such a great thought. The ones that come to mind off the top of my head is:

    God brought me to my husband SO THAT I would receive salvation in Jesus Christ (Amen, Amen!).

    God uses our marriage relationship SO THAT I learn to yield my life to God’s direction for our family through my husband’s leading.



  39. Apryl on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:21 pm

    My husband recently lost his father, which was a very difficult time, but I believe that occurred SO THAT we could grow deeper to know Jesus together and we could learn how to deal with difficult circumstances together through God. In a weird way, I believe losing his father has brought us closer together.



  40. Melody on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:26 pm

    My life has been filled with a great deal of heartache, hurt, loss, anger and regrets, yet so thankful now when I am able to see these things in the eyes of “So that…”
    So that…I may invest in others and share the overwhelming unconditional love and grace of our God.



  41. Lisa on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:28 pm

    We all have those “so that” moments, but we may not realize it at the time. A few years ago my husband was let go from him job-one he had been at for almost 20 years. It was hard to believe there was any good in that time of our life. But, as time has gone on I realized that it happened, “so that” our relationship with God and one another would be strengthened. Now, we have a friend who is dealing with a cancer that has not responded to treatment at this point. We are searching for the “so that” moment still; yet, we know we have to remain faithful so we can realize that “so that” moment.



  42. Debby Stephens on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:41 pm

    Life hasn’t always been easy for me. I have walked many paths of pain from childhood through adulthood. Many from others choices. I am not perfect in any sense of the word. Why God allows some to go through more pain than others I can’t answer. Nine years ago when my husband of 26 years left me, I thought God, I have paid my dues in the area of pain. I soon realized this was another opportunity to see God heal and restore my heart. I don’t want to live the rest of my life in the “If Only’s” I have experienced God’s healing and restoration in my life. I have to share the hope and healing with others who have no hope. We can’t live in this world and escape painful experiences. Our circumstances maybe different yet there are lessons and principles that apply to the rough roads of life. As we see purpose in our pain we have a message, one of HOPE and healing that is only found through GOD AND GOD ALONE. “Yeah though I walk through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil….”



  43. Marielly on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:48 pm

    Recently, I have experienced a “so that” moment in my life. I was going through a hardship where in my household we had more month than money; and we didn’t know how we were going to pay the bills or even buy groceries. I stopped going to church for two months because I wanted to figure out what to do in this situation. So God brought back into my life, a sister of the church I congregate and while I was going through all this we didn’t have water because the pipes in my house were frozen due to the weather. So God had sent her back to me to rescue me and my family. She bought groceries, she allowed us to use her house so we can bathe. All these happened within 3 days. I cried so hard because I knew God was in the midst of all these blessings. God allowed all this to happen in my life, SO THAT, I can return to the place He placed me to worship Him and sing praises to Him. He let me go through this SO THAT I return to seek His face and the kingdom of GOD first; SO THAT I feel complete and taken care of because of HIm. Great testimony for the people in need.



    • Wendy Blight on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 11:01 pm

      What a great story of provision by Jehovah Jireh!! Thank you for sharing.

      Wendy



  44. NancyJo on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 12:53 pm

    What beautiful 2 words to switch our perspective of our trials and “hick-ups” in life. God is in control and every experience we live is “so that” he may teach us and grow us in the likeness of His Son.



  45. Paige on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 1:36 pm

    God allowed me to go through two miscarriages (one of the reasons) so that I could encourage a sister in Christ as she struggled through multiple miscarriages of her own. God allowed me to become completely stressed out and overwhelmed in life, and change from a high paying high stress job to a low stress, 50% pay cut job so that I could be an encouragement to another sister in Christ as she faced that decision and wondered if her sweet family would be ok with the salary difference. God allows me to struggle daily with eating healthy and managing an autoimmune disease so that I will always lean into him and not try to live in my own power.

    God is allowing me to live a quiet life at the moment, without a lot of girlfriends and accomplishments SO THAT….

    I can’t wait to see what he does with this one! Still in progress.

    “Humble yourself before the Lord and he will lift you up again at the right time.” James 4:10



  46. Mary Tullila on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 1:41 pm

    I have been given the distinct gift of suicide loss of a spouse & the undercurrents, SO THAT I may seek Him , yearn for Him & abide in Him…no matter what.



  47. Martha T. on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 2:06 pm

    Sad times due to losses have caused me to lean on the Lord so that I don’t fall down.



  48. Kasey on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 2:24 pm

    I was born in 1978 and because of a doctor’s mistake, I developed mild cerebral palsy. I often felt “too much” and “not enough” because of this. In 2002, I spent the summer in Maine as a missionary. The family that I lived with also had a son with mild cerebral palsy. When the family saw me walk in, a whole new world opened up for their son in their minds. Just when I was getting too far away from that experience of helping, another family needed me to answer questions about what cerebral palsy is like day-to-day. Not only were the families helped, but it also gave me purpose and encouragement!



  49. Sandy M on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 2:33 pm

    I want to say that was beautiful I wasn’t ever introduced to Jesus so I believed in evolution believing Christians to be deluded in there believes I thought I everything was done under my will and might until everything fell apart I became a drug addict who lost custody of her son soon followed by job lose I ended up homeless but not before God gave me hope I was reunited with my son through a ministry that fed the homeless I was finally finding hope in something much bigger then myself GOD I ended up totally alone without a home or family well I finally ended up in an abandon house.I cried out to Jesus that night in desperation and I gave my life to him that night I now lead a group that helps addicts(alot of women who finally hit bottom after losing their children)I draw on the God given compassion for them that only experience can provide I also do park ministry that feeds the homeless and evangelizes to them every Saturday The Lord has been so good to me that I know that my trials only a testimony and the messes only messages I certainly as you said you don’t look forward to them but through Christ when we are weak he is strong My life by far is far from perfect and I He is only giving me a chance to grow into the woman He wants me to be



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:30 pm

      Wow! What a powerful story God has given you! I love how you returned to minister to the very people you once walked alongside when you were homeless. Your love and testimony will be so much more effective than any words Tracie and I could ever say. May God bless and establish the work of your hands as you continue to minister in His Name. And I pray He surrounds you with an army of angels to protect you from harm or any temptation to go back.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  50. Jennie on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:20 pm

    I went through a divorcee and many across the states moves so that I can encouragement moms and start a group.



  51. Cari on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:32 pm

    So that.. God can turn me mess into His messsge. 7 years of so much heart ache, death, trama, etc that stating it all amazes people. Had I known by 25 I would have gone through it all I would have reserved my rubber room. God had other plans.



  52. Shelon Milligan on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:42 pm

    I have been through 2 miscarriages “so that” I could encourage others through the same thing, and to strengthen me in my faith. “So that” I could release everything to God for he is the one who’s in control. I have been through 2 types of cancer “so that” again I could encourage others, but also that I could test my faith that was developed during my miscarriages. This faith has also been an example to my husband and family. I don’t know how many times people have said to me during the cancers “How are you so calm?” Well, I know God the Father is in control and I trust Him. Thank you Tracie for your encouragement 🙂



  53. Heather on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 3:48 pm

    I have struggled with depression and self-doubt “so that” I can help others to see who they truly are in Christ, since HE has shown me who I am truly in HIM.



  54. Anne B on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 4:08 pm

    I believe I am going through a difficult struggle now, SO THAT I will be able to be a better mom, wife, and person in general. I hope that I can also help others through this and that it will soften me to other people, as other struggles have only done the opposite. Thank you for your blog!



  55. Tara on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 4:11 pm

    I went through childhood abuse, divorced parents & now a husband who has lost his job…all so that I can be tender towards others that have deep scars, truly appreciate & fight for a godly, loving marriage and now for my husband and I to lean deeply into God trusting in His faithful provision. God is so, so good and over and over I have seen Him make beauty out of ashes!



  56. June Chapko on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 6:12 pm

    I invested many years of my time and energy into forming a women’s ministry in my previous church. God had led those efforts and it became a ministry where the women could gather and be encouraged; learn to discover their spiritual gifts and use them for God’s glory. After a time, there was one who wanted control and was successful in shoving me out. I felt rejected and discouraged.

    Then as I spent much time in prayer, God revealed to me that He allowed me to go through the trials and experience rejection ‘so that’ I might learn more about His son and the rejection He dealt with. He also taught me more aspects of forgiveness and His perfect love. No matter what man/woman does to me, God has my back.

    He brought me to a new place ‘so that’ I might work tandem with godly women in a church where unity and like minded thinking prevail. God used my ordeal for my good. Praise Him!



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:27 pm

      Praising Him with you! There is no better place to be than in a place of complete surrender and obedience, forgiving those who have offended and hurt us. God blesses that place SO richly!!! Thank you for sharing. I know many women can identify with your story and your words will bless and encourage them.

      W



  57. Crystal Storms on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 9:21 pm

    I have dealt with infertility so that I could learn patience, lean closer to God for strength and comfort, and have more time to invest in my marriage.

    I wouldn’t consider infertility a joy, but the effects have produced joyful fruits.



    • Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:25 pm

      Oh, Crystal, be sure to look for Amanda Hope Haley’s book, Barren Among the Fruitful, coming out in Fall 2014 from our InScribed Collection. It is a beautiful book that ministers to women dealing with infertility. Amanda fills the book with her God-given wisdom, her experiences, and lots of tears and laughter. She would say the same as you…God has produced some amazing fruit from it, including her book.

      Blessings,

      Wendy



  58. Wendy Blight on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:21 pm

    Tracie, what a blessings it has been to read through each one of these comments. I love all the “so thats” everyone has learned. Each one has blessed me!! Thank you all for taking time from your busy schedules to stop and leave a comment. And, Tracie, thank you for sharing Living So That!!

    Blessings,

    Wendy



  59. Donna B on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:38 pm

    Trials come “so that” I can experience His peace – a peace that passes all understanding! When He fills you with His peace – there is no question as to where it comes from. I would have never known God as my Jehovah Shalom without experiencing Him when diagnosed with cancer. His peace never left me … okay … maybe once when the diagnosis changed a few times and ended up in surgery twice in six weeks.

    Love you two!!

    Donna B



  60. Anna on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 10:42 pm

    Tracie thank you so much for sharing “trials come so that”, I have experienced many trials in my life and now see what blessings have come from them. In the past year I have been on a weight loss journey with Jesus, as I read your devotional I thought of things I’ve gone through and have realized the “so that” of them. But the more I read the more I realized that my weight loss journey (which is at my half way point) has been “so that” I could help my older daughter begin her weight loss journey (and encourages others who struggle with weight loss) My daughter says she is finally ready, I believe she is. I wish she had stuck with me on the Made To Crave OBS, but it doesn’t matter, I have so many notes and my book is high lighted, well almost everywhere I could high light. Thank you Wendy for writing this book, thank you both for taking time from your lives to encourage us.

    Blessings Anna



  61. Christine on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 6:58 am

    “so that” I could work on softening my heart and learning to forgive those who hurt me.



  62. Tammy on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 8:07 am

    I have gone through many trials these last ten years……….divorce, daughter on drugs, financial problems………..but I honestly feel that because of these trials I have become a stronger Christian. “So that” I would love God more and turn EVERYTHING over to him.



  63. BEVERLY SHOOK on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 10:55 am

    Having spent a lot of time around elderly people as a child and taught to love and respect them; so that. … as an adult I have a sensitivity to them and their needs. It is not fun to be old and we can’t help but be there someday. In Our Real Estate business I have been able to care and listen to their stories and take the time needed to serve them.



  64. Julie Smith on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 1:47 pm

    I was a lost soul for over half my life so far. To say that I was “easy” is taking the easy way out! I’d also had two abortions in five years, and was generally living a life that had spun out of control and certainly far from what I now live. I met my husband, and between our 1st and 2nd child, I had a miscarriage right at the end of the 1st trimester. I took it as punishment from God. I had destroyed two of His little masterpieces, so it was time for me to pay. When I told my husband that, he explained that it was not how God worked, and he proceeded to introduce me to Jesus. Were it not for that simple statement following something God allowed to happen SO THAT I’d come to know Him and His Son, who knows where I’d be? My life was forever changed after hearing about my Savior and His love for me!!! Hallelujah!!!

    Julie



  65. Christina on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 3:08 pm

    I went through hard financial times and the loss of a home so that I could finally learn to be content with what I have and not always striving for more.



  66. Vonnie Kronk on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 7:06 pm

    I’m going thru a Big trail now so that I can glorify God I know! I had a brain injury & it took away many things but not God. He is still with me & I would love to know why I lived so that I can do everything God wants me to do



  67. Narda Gallagher on Friday, March 21, 2014 at 2:24 am

    I sense that God is telling me to be patient, that it won’t be long and the major problem I’m facing will be fixed – not by me – but by Him !
    The long ordeal is what God allowed, SO THAT I would learn to wait, and have faith in Him !
    The way things are now, I think I might be ok even if nothing changed. It’s because my relationship with the Lord is much stronger than it was ! I don’t HAVE TO HAVE what I wanted, as much now. I’m committing it all to Him. He allowed the problem SO THAT all this would come about. Thank You, Lord !!!



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Tracie Miles is a bestselling author and the Director of COMPEL Training with Proverbs 31 Ministries.  She helps women grow stronger in their faith, pursue the life of purpose God designed them for and live a life of peace, joy and happiness despite their circumstances.

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