Learning in the valley

In recent weeks it has become clear to me that God has allowed the suffering and sorrow in our lives for a reason. I have come to realize, that it is in the valley of difficulty and heartache that we truly learn about God. It is in that place of weakness and brokenness that God can use us for his purpose. I am learning the timeless truths that are spoken in his word. I realize I can never be like Jesus as long as what I think or what I want is more important to me than what he thinks or wants of me. I can never hear God's voice as long as the "why me, why this, why Jason, why Jerry" keeps shouting in my soul and heart and mind. It is only when I lay it all down and truly, without any reservations say..."thy will, not mine be done", that God can finally step in and be who HE wants to be, do what HE wants to do, in my life. I struggle with the process, I struggle with the sorrow, I struggle with Jerry's struggling. But I know that God is at work. I know that His ways are not my ways but unlike mine, they are perfect and without flaw. I know that I want to be the salt of the earth, the light that shines in the darkness and if this is the price that I must pay to become that obedient child of God.....it is a small price compared to the promise of eternity with the King of King and Lord of Lords. I know there are many more lessons to learn, many more challenges ahead, but I am confident that He who began a good work in me is able to complete it....and He will, in His time, His way, for His purpose and His glory. I want to be a better student, a faster learner, a more obedient child.....I want Him to know that I love Him and desire to serve Him and I long for that day when I will be in His presence for eternity.