OVERCOMING TRIALS IN OUR LIVES

 

Overcoming Trials In Our Lives

Anyone who has traveled by plane knows that you may experience a little turbulence here and there during your flight. It’s rare to take a trip these days without encountering a few issues along the way. As Christians, we understand that we will not fly through life with ease because we know there will be bumps and turbulence along our journey. We all face tests, trials, and tribulations. And when turbulence hits, it can impact us spiritually, mentally, physically, or financially if we are not prepared.

Preparation

How we learn to prepare ourselves for these trials and tribulations is up to us. Many of us speak of our faith, but when a trial hits us, we panic, worry, or cave into our feelings of hopelessness. My friend, this is not faith; this is a lack of faith.

Do you recall Matthew 8: 23-27?  Jesus and His disciples were at sea, and the epic storm came rolling in. Jesus was asleep while the disciples were stressing about the situation. Where was their faith? The Lord did come to their rescue and calmed the sea, but it was their reaction to the storm that showed their faith wasn’t where it should be. They panicked instead of waiting for the storm to cease, trusting in Jesus.

Filling Our Minds with His Word

I will admit, I am not always the patient believer faithfully waiting for the storm to quell. If I am not careful, the anxiety builds up, and before I can stop my thoughts, I am overwhelmed with feelings of despair, hopelessness, or worry.

Recently, I found myself at a loss for what to do. The first thing that crossed my mind was picking up my iPhone to text a close friend. I needed support, and I thought, who better to reach out to than my dear friend? As I reached for my cell phone, the words of God echoed in my mind, reminding me to turn to Him, and that is exactly what I did. I sat quietly and turned my thoughts to Him, seeking His direction. Although the answer was not immediate, the sense of peace and calm covering me was immediate. I was blanketed with His promises, and I knew He was leading the way.

It is at times like this that I am so grateful. It reminds me just how fortunate we are, because the Bible is filled with truth. When we take the time to read God’s truths and allow His Word to fill our minds, we turn to these promises and rely on these words in our times of trouble. God promises He will never leave nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6).

I believe, do you?

Learning How to Overcome the Trials

Walk In Faith

No matter what we face in our lives, we must always remember that God is with us.

God loves us unconditionally, and when life looks dark and grim, He will never leave us. Even when things do not work out as we expected, we can lean on God for the strength and support to sustain us through our struggles.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 NKJV

Direction

Lean on God when you need help making a decision. Ask God to give you wisdom for the circumstances you are facing. Avoid turning to family and friends for advice before God. Turn to God first. Take time to be still and talk to God openly. Cast your cares on Him. You may not receive an answer right away, but walk in trust that God will answer you in His perfect timing. Believe and receive expectantly, waiting for his direction.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV

Apply

Lastly, it is so important to apply His Word to your life. When you apply God’s Word, you grow through life as opposed to going through life. Our journey is about growth. Our spiritual journey is about deepening our relationship with God.

There will be trials. There will be challenges. There will be unanswered prayers. It’s our reaction to these situations that determines our next step. Will you move forward or backward? I’ve taken steps back many times because of my lack of faith and my need to take control. Letting go in faith and trusting God are among the most important things you can do as a believer. And, when we let go and let God, we are reflecting His light for others to see and follow.

What are You Reflecting?

Are you reflecting or deflecting? We are all overcomers. The choice is ours. Will you allow your trials to consume you, or will you choose to break free and grow through your challenges?

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5: 14-16 NKJV

The Challenge

I challenge you today to read God’s Word, meditate on His Word, and walk in faith. Let’s face those trials together head-on without wavering because we know and believe that God is for us, and we will overcome.

Whatever the outcome, we grow stronger. God is always with us. We are not promised a life of ease. We are promised a better life in the eternal. So, today, friend, give your life to God and allow His Word to give you the peace and hope you long for.

If you have questions about your journey, please reach out. I am always available, and I enjoy hearing from you and praying with you!

Image Credit Beth Briggs Illustration