No Smooth Path

Lord, 

like all people, 

I am born to trouble 

as surely as 

the sparks fly upward (Job 5:7). 

Help me not to expect 

a smooth path through life, 

as though I deserve comfort, 

even luxury. 

Help me to greet adversity as opportunity, 

and to trust you and glorify

whether my way is easy or hard, 

stormy or smooth, 

in Jesus' name, amen.

(photo by Sternenvogelreisen via pixabay.com)