“And so rock bottom became a solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” J. K. Rowling

We’ve all had those points in life, when we hit bottom.  Each day begins to fall apart and there’s nowhere to turn.  It’s out of the depths of those dark places where we might crumble into rubble – or – we can use those difficult times to bemoan our fate – blame someone else – melt into oblivion – or – we can rise out of that pit with the help of our Champion/Jesus.

When we struggle over daily problems, we’re actually preparing ourselves for a big crash.  I know that sounds pessimistic but bear me out.  If change didn’t occur; if everything remained stagnant; if we followed a routine which never faltered, wouldn’t that be boring?  Change gives way to creativity.  Creativity will generate ideas and invention, making big alterations in the way we live. Life without struggles sounds amazing, doesn’t it?  We want to glide through each day with no waves, obstacles or detours. Satan knows our every weakness and uses that knowledge to attack us.  He plays on our fears our insecurities, our doubts.

I’ve shared this with you before, but it comes to mind again as I think about being built on the Rock.  My husband carries a rock in his pocket.  He’s done this for our entire marriage.  The rock holds no power, it’s not a good luck charm, but serves as a reminder that God is always with him. I love my husband for being my help mate, my best friend and confidante, but especially as my spiritual partner.  This simple gesture has made a tremendous impact on me.  It was brought home most poignantly when he was admitted to the hospital after a fall which touched every inch of his body.  He needed to stay for additional testing.  As I folded his clothes, the rock fell out of his pocket.  My eyes grew moist, yet I knew that he was in good hands.

We’ll be crushed, rebuilt, restored, broken again and redo the process many times.  Those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength. When the final hour of life arrives, we will be ready for heaven. Ms. Rowlings used her difficulties to rebuild her life.  When we hit bottom, we have nowhere to look, but up.  We can push forward and never look back.  God promises us the final victory.  In the meantime, stay grounded in God’s Word.