5 Things to Remember When Times Get Tough
Last week was rough. An unusual shape showed up on an x-ray and my doctor scheduled me for an ultrasound. I wasn’t prepared for the news. The doctor recommended a pretty significant surgery to remove two large fibroid tumors.
To say I was shocked is an understatement. Circumstances certainly didn’t look good. Discouragement was ready to pounce. Have you ever been there?
I can relate to the words David wrote thousands of years ago:
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.Psalm 43:5
Instead of giving in to discouragement, I’m challenged to look at the bigger picture and trust God with this ‘bump’ in my road.
Re-focusing
When times get tough: we can retreat in despair, or recognize the situation as an opportunity for growth.
Maybe the most difficult thing to do is let go and remember we are not in control of what happens in our lives – but with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can control how we react.
Here are 5 things we can focus on as we move ahead:
1
Because of sin, everyone suffers – including you and me. We shouldn’t think it’s unusual when bad things happen.
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.1 Peter 4:12-13
2
We need to remember Christ’s example – He looked ahead to the joy that would come from the trial. Notice His response as He shouldered the weight of our sins:
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.Hebrews 12:2
3
Think on the truth – don’t let a lie trip you up (i.e. God doesn’t love me or He wouldn’t have allowed this to happen)
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.Philippians 4:8
4
Focus on our future – this life isn’t all there is. One day you and I will spend eternity in the presence of the Lord.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you1 Peter 1:3-4
5
The tough stuff you and I go through gives us the unique opportunity to offer comfort to others going through something similar.
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Are you going through something difficult today? How have you responded? Take a step back and look at the big picture. The Lord wants to use what you’re going through to show others His greatness. Know His love for you and let Him work today.
*It would be my privilege to pray for you! You can send me your prayer request here.
Your turn
How do you respond to trials? What step will you take today to let the Lord use your situation to bring growth in your life and glory to Him?
Can I pray for you?
Heavenly Father, because of sin life is hard. It’s easy to focus on ourselves and miss Your big picture. When trials and difficulties come, help us remember the truth from Your Word. Help us choose the right attitude and grow in our walk with You. Thank You for the perfect purpose and plan You have for our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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