Shorty after becoming a Christian in 1980, I heard a message about praising God for the blessings and also for the trials in your life. It was taken from James, Chapter 1, Verses 2-4, which reads: “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

The week following that message, I had a flat tire on the Spillway Bridge on my way back from Metairie. Needless to say, I was aggravated. While standing outside the car, looking at the flat, I thought of the message about praising God for all things. I began to say, “Praise God! Praise God! Thank you, God, for the flat tire.” I never felt so ridiculous. I continued, “You know, God, I don’t know how to change a flat. Please send someone to my rescue.”  

Within five minutes, my friend, Gene Duhe of Garyville, passed, recognized me and stopped. He asked what I was doing. “I’m fishing!” I sarcastically shot back, as I stood on the side of the road dressed in a suit and tie.  

I’ve known Gene since he was a young boy and have seen him many times over the years but was never so happy to see him that day, about 30 years ago.

While writing this article, I called Gene and asked if he remembered that day. He said, “That was a long time ago.” Laughingly, he added, “You know, I could have gotten killed that day!”

As I reflect on my Christian walk, I’m reminded that during every trial, God was always faithful and on time.

Getting back to James, Chapter 1, I have to admit that I haven’t always counted it all joy when facing various trials.

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477, or email hkeller@comcast.net.