We may experience difficult situations that make us feel discouraged. They may make us question why this hardship is happening at this stage of life. We may never know the answer to why, but what we can do is ask ourselves “what can I learn and how can I grow from this?” Hardships are an opportunity to develop perseverance and to see our trials lead to maturity and fulfillment.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4
When we experience something tough, feeling a sense of joy is not usually our first response. Anxiety, uncertainty, or disappointment are often what we feel. How is Joy possible when life isn’t going well?
We can’t let our minds be focused on the future. We should focus on the present. If we see our present-day sufferings in light of the larger course of our lives and the importance of our perseverance along the way, then we can experience pure joy.
We can’t know how strong our character is until we see how we react under pressure. Will we respond with fear, anxiety, worry, uncertainty, anger, and lack of trust, or will we react having full trust in God?
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
God is using circumstances in our lives to shape us and use us for his purpose. He works in all things for our good. This does not mean all things that will happen to us will be pleasant. Even though we live in a sinful world where evil situations do and will happen, God can turn every circumstance around for our long-term benefit.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” Philippians 4:4-5
Rejoicing with an attitude of thankfulness can remind you of God’s goodness. Showing gratitude and being thankful for the current and day-to-day things can help build the confidence to face the day ahead, especially with difficulties.
Our current circumstances should not dictate our inner attitudes. No matter what happens to us or where we will be, Jesus Christ is never too far to reach.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Turn your worries into prayers. Do you want to worry less? Pray more. Whenever you start to worry, stop and pray. During your prayers, listen to what God has to say to you, and thank him for all the good work he’s done.
Our hearts and minds need a guard in times of uncertainty to know that the peace of God is active. Let God’s peace guard your heart against the enmities of this world that try to bring you down and try to keep your focus off Jesus.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9
What we watch, listen to, or read determines how we think and act. We must train our minds to focus on thoughts that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy.
True peace is not found in “positive thinking” or good feelings. It comes from trusting God to work everything out for you as you fulfill God’s work. If peace is what you want in life, to find it, trust God through all the difficulties that will come in this lifetime while doing God’s work.
TAKING ACTION
● Ask God for wisdom and strength to help solve and persevere your problems.
● Through difficult times, think and reflect on how it’s working for your good. Think about how this circumstance can help you grow or shape your character. “Why is this happening, not to me, but for me?
● When you feel a sense of anxiousness, stop and pray.
● Read God’s word in the Bible. Ask God to help you fill your mind with good and pure thoughts.