Difficult times occur in our lives occur only because the Lord allows them to occur. And He allows them because each one serves a purpose in our lives.

Recently I was having trouble praying. My mind would either keep wandering, or I would get distracted or sleepy. And then one day an unsettling situation occurred. It saddened and shook me. But it also jolted me right out of the comfort I was settling into and right onto my knees. If anything, the situation helped me to start praying again. So I thank God for difficulties and trials. For strengthening me and pulling to close to Him, time after time.