The Christian life isn’t easy. Nowhere in the Bible does it say trials and tribulations stop occurring. In fact, God’s teaches us to rejoice in our times of distress. (James 1:2-3).
Adversity is an overwhelming obstacle blocking us from receiving God’s grace. I understand the pain caused by life’s terms. None of us wants to experience uncomfortable predicaments.
No, I want utopia.
But the fact is I can’t avoid trials and tribulations nor can anyone else.
One of the toughest challenges I face is rejoicing in times of despair. Everything inside me wants to blame others or ask God why me.
The problem with that is, accusing others and questioning God gets me nowhere.
How can I find joy in times of emotional turmoil?
The solution begins with trusting Christ.
It’s important to realize a faith in Christ overcomes misfortune. God wants me to turn my life over to Christ’s care. And when I abandon myself to Him I find serenity in all circumstances.
I can almost hear you thinking; I have faith, but the release from my unrest hasn’t arrived. And you may even go further and ask why isn’t God responding to my petition for help.
The answer?
First, I must remember God’s timing comes when He sees fit. This isn’t easy to accept because I want instant relief.
Once I’m able to grasp the way Christ works, then I must continue placing my trust in Him. This takes perseverance. I can’t afford giving up before receiving answered prayers. Remember, God is in charge and will not mislead me. My persistent faith shows God a commitment to His truth.
Likewise, patience is another way of finding happiness during rough times because it gives me an opportunity to redirect my thoughts towards others. And when I help others, my distress melts away.
Another way I find peace in anxiety is meditating on Christ’s death. This captures my heart because He endured suffering incomparable to those I face. Every time I remember His execution it changes my outlook on my tribulations.
Why is this?
Because the anguish Christ went through to deliver salvation; humbles me. It brings tears to my eyes. He paid the price, and this brings joy to my suffering.
And the best part is this:
3 And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God, Himself will be with them and be their God. 4, And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”
Revelation 21:3-4
How awesome is that?
Given these points, we can rejoice in our trying times. Even though it takes considerable effort to discover happiness, under those circumstances, our eternal hope makes it worthwhile. Remember with God everything is possible!
Walter,
This is so good. I know I let anxiety take hold too often. What works for me is remembering all the answered prayers, especially taking note of the changes in my life. Add them all up and they are a huge conglomerate miracle.
Thanks and blessings to you.
Hi, Deb. Your experience strength and hope inspire me. Your insight on this topic helps me remember how powerful God is when responding to our prayers. Thanks for sharing and GBY my friend.