Strength lies in struggle. This is Chad number 580’s daily message to the insightful Paul Johnson.

A scientist in the mid-1800s, Alfred Wallace, observed an Emperor butterfly struggling to break free from its cocoon. The intensity of the struggle was evident.

In Arthur Caliandro’s book, Simple Steps, Wallace wondered what would happen if he aided the process. With a knife, he made a slit down the cocoon. The butterfly emerged, spread its wings, drooped, and died. The pain and struggle were denied, hindering its growth.

We may not always welcome adversity, but with the right mindset, we can view it as an opportunity for growth and strength. With the right outlook, we can overcome challenges.

I don’t know your struggles, which may be physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. However, there can be purpose in pain. I’ve read the book of Psalms for ten years, slowly reading a portion each morning as part of my journaling. I’m up to Psalm 10. I’ve noticed questions at the beginning. Why this? Why that? However, they fade as you progress. By the end, it’s all praise and gratitude. A metamorphosis occurs, but it takes 150 chapters and struggle to achieve.

Take hope in your struggles today. You gain strength from them.