Interruptions in our routines can cause devastating upheavals and readjustments. Sometimes these unwelcome or seemingly tragic interruptions should be interpreted as hidden blessings, the means God uses to lead us to His truth. Unexpected interruptions such as Mary's pregnancy or Paul's sudden blindness altered plans 180 degrees in the positive direction. Paul eventually realized the need for special trials and thorns in his side to keep him close to God. An affliction may be from God, bringing us a reward of glory. We need to learn to accept trials and afflictions as God's way of shaping and perfecting us.