It’s not the way we would plan it, and we may not always understand it, but it’s true:
“In this world, you will have trouble.” (John 16:33)
We will face trials that bring suffering, fear, and dismay. Often, we may not see any reason for what is going on and wonder why it is happening to us, and at times all may seem dark.
But every one of us will face trials in life; the question is, how will we choose to deal with them?
The bottom line is that by choosing faith and holding onto hope, we can go on. Hopefully, we eventually discern the benefits of those tough times. And by enduring, we develop a spiritual resilience to better deal with the ups and downs in life.
Seeing God in Our Trials
When we face tough times, there is help available. Because God will be there for us, especially in our darkest hour. Which means that we can make it through, and there is always hope. It may take perseverance, and it will certainly require faith, but millions of other people have suffered similar trials and gotten through.
Trials are normally when we call on God the most. We pray most deeply in the dark of night, and God can supply hope even when hope seems lost. By persevering, we exercise and strengthen our faith. Sometimes, it seems, trust takes training.
“We can be sure that when something is happening to us, God is doing something in us–something that will shape us for eternity.” (Chris Hodges)
God’s ways are not our ways, but by trusting him we can get through, one step at a time.
The Benefits of Tough Times
Tough times are when God does his best work and when we grow the most.
These trials teach us humility and help us develop a greater dependence on God. We acquire the strength to know that life can go on even in tough times. We develop a deeper and more empathetic understanding that allows us to minister to others facing similar problems. Sometimes, we may find a new ministry that reshapes our lives.
Trials are not the end of the world; they are a natural part of the seasons of life we all face.
They help us see that our well-being does not depend on our circumstances. We learn that peace does not come from an absence of problems but from developing the faith and understanding to deal with troubles with God at our side.
This spiritual strength and emotional resilience will help us endure tough times, and enjoy the good times more deeply.
“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” (Helen Keller)
Tough times are important, sometimes life-altering, milestones in our lives. Our happiness, well-being, and spiritual health may revolve around how we handle these struggles, so it helps to be prepared for them by deepening our faith.
Because a birth of hope may arise from our trials, and a light can shine through the dark. And to get a glimpse of that hope, we simply need to read the rest of the Bible verse we started with …
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Question: What is the hardest trial you have been through, and what did you learn from it?
Action: Write down as many benefits as you can that can come from enduring tough times
