Early in the springtime, a cardinal chose to build her nest in a hanging basket near an entrance to our house. The mother bird must have thought this was an ideal spot, for she soon began delivering construction materials for her new home. But she didn't realize that it was one of the busiest areas around. By the time Mrs. Cardinal could have laid her eggs and hatched them, she would have been a nervous wreck.

My wife, recognizing the problem, moved the basket to the back porch. The next time our feathered friend appeared she fluttered about in confusion. If she could have talked, I imagine she would have said, "How could they be so cruel?" Her difficulty was really a blessing, however, for she was forced to find a better place for her brood.

We often encounter disappointments that perplex and bother us, and we're tempted to cry out, "O Lord, why do You allow these things to happen?" But at times like this we should cast ourselves on God's mercy and love. Even though our present trials may be heartbreaking, the all-wise heavenly Father works through them to bring about our ultimate good. We can thank God for our disappointments because they are blessings in disguise!  — Richard De Haan