This is a post I’ve been meaning to write for a couple years now, so rather than continuing to ruminate on it and never posting it, I’m letting it loose. The lack of references is due to not being able to find the articles I’m referencing any longer.

It’s probably common knowledge to most that a slightly cooler-than-comfortable workplace is said to increase productivity. In addition, back when I was first mentally piecing this post together, I read an article linked from CNN that said people who were slightly undernourished (not malnourished) are healthier overall, because their bodies are much more efficient at extracting the necessary nutrients from everything eaten. The slightly undernourished also have lower risks for certain forms of disease as well (diabetes, etc).

On a different note, tests with laboratory animals found that mazes (leading to their meals) which changed daily led to more alert and intelligent animals which were also more prone to use their exercise wheels, etc.

These are all instances of life thriving through some sort of adversity.

So, what’s the point?

A couple years ago, I was going through a lot of big things in life all at once. I remember at the time thinking how difficult a lot of it was but also really appreciating what it had done for my faith.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

So, this post is just a note-to-self that being uncomfortable can be a very good thing, and during tough times, there is a lot to be gained and learned about oneself. God can really evoke some amazing newness out of it all. He did it for me, and I don’t want to forget it.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.