Trials and Tribulations

I don't know who it was that said, "The only thing you can count on, are death and taxes." I would like to add, that you can also count on trials and tribulations. They are just a normal part of life.
Last year, we seemed to go through more than our fair share of trials and tribulations. Some of them were so hard that I don't know how we survived...other than the mighty grace of God. There were times when I was ready to scream and run away, especially when there was more than one to deal with at a time. Much prayer and perserverance brought us through each one with victory. When the year ended, I was one very happy woman.
This year has started off extremely calm and that has been such a blessing. We were able to fully enjoy our vacation knowing that nothing was "hanging over our heads." But then the vacation ended and so did the calm. When the mail resumed, so did the trials and tribulations.
The difference this year, is that I don't feel so overwhelmed. The Bible says, "Tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope:" Romans 5:3b-4. The Lord Jesus also said that in this world we will have tribulations. God's Word has given me peace that this trial (which is a literal trial) will work out according to His will.
So, I don't dread trials and tribulations this year like I did last year. The difference is the blessings of the Lord.