Trouble and Knife dont have Ds

Sometimes its easy to spot differences in photos. At other times, its not. Especially if you are playing the arcade game photo-hunt, which includes a speedy time limit that makes you panic and unable to concentrate on spotting the subtle ( and many of times, cheapskate) differences.
During troubled times in our lives, its much the same. We become flustered and agitated, unable to concentrate on the hidden nuances that God has planted to mold our character. Its good to know that turmoil can bring about God's work in our lives. However, all too often, when the tool of trouble is wielded upon my life, i cry out for deliverance, not development.
I guess its human tendency. Even as Christians, its so much easier to cry out "Lord, deliver me!" Instead of "What can I get out of this situation? What is God trying to make me learn?" For one thing, "Save me!" entails fewer words.
The next time painful experiences come to cut me open, i want to pray a different prayer. For now I have spotted the difference : Trouble is Christ's special tool to expose weaknesses in order to fill with His strength.

Adapted from "The Renewed Mind" by Larry Christenson. From the chapter "The tool of trouble" and the topic "Deliverance or Development".