We all go through and face very real and difficult trials in life, and often times as christians we feel like following God saves us from that. But in all reality, it doesn’t. Having a relationship with Jesus does not stop you from going through storms and hard times in life, but knowing that our Savior is by our side always is so comforting.
No matter what storm or battle you may be facing in life, I pray this is an encouragement to you that everything you’re going through is for an exact purpose, and God will use your pain for His plan.
The truth of trials.
Seeing the bigger picture of our trials and knowing that God is with us every step of the way, is so comforting for many reasons. It reminds us that we are never alone through all of our pain and suffering. We see our trials in a whole different perspective, and are reassured that our struggles are bringing us towards so much goodness.
We are reminded of this in James 1:2-4, which says “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
How do we have joy in trials? That seems almost impossible, right? How do we find happiness when we’re in so much pain? How do we have joy when we feel so alone? From the perspective of God, it all makes perfect sense. Our storms in life bring us closer to Him and leave us lacking nothing, because He fulfills us.
No one wants to face hard situations in life, and we may not always see the benefit from them… but we don’t have god’s perspective and He always sees the bigger picture and what’s on the other side. Even though we may be stuck in a storm, we never leave the arms of our Father.
Battling emotions.
Have you ever felt like your whole world is crushed and you feel so defeated? Everything is going so good, and then when it falls apart it almost feels as if you want to give up or stop fighting. Girl, i’ve been there and it’s hard. It’s miserable to feel that way, and have no motivation to to repair your life.
Sadness, angry, frustration, worry, and fear are all very real emotions that even the strongest of christians experience. Sometimes we can be afraid to acknowledge our emotions, but it is so important to deal with all of our emotions in the seasons of battle, even our negative ones. When we look in the light of God’s truth, we can find comfort instead of living in denial.
When we are angry, we can find peace that God’s love will never be shaken, even by our emotions. – “For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord , who has compassion on you.” || Isaiah 54:10
When we are sad, we can find joy in the truth that God is near to the brokenhearted. – “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
God has given us so many promises, but one that He offers again and again is comfort. He totally understand what we are going through, and wants us to surrender our burdens to Him and to lean on Him in faith when our emotions are too much for us to handle alone. When our spirits are crushed, God reassures us He is still enough.
The reason we experience storms.
Sometimes we are living life and all is going good, and then we experience a trial and everything changes. It’s in these moments when we realize just how weak we are. In these moments of hurt and sorrow, we have a choice. We can either turn our backs on God and run away from reality, or we can accept our circumstances and praise God through them.
We have to persevere in these difficult moments, and have to trust that God – who knows everything about us – cares enough about us to take care of us, no matter what storms we battle. We have to remind ourselves of this truth every single day, that no matter what we go through that God is with is. No matter how small or big our battle may be, Jesus never leaves our side. Everyday in life we endure trials, and we should make it a priority to persevere through those difficult times. We have hope for the future and for each day because we know that our God is watching out for us. All of our suffering is ultimately producing a hope that is fulfilled every day in Jesus.
I know how hard it can be to experience struggles in life that make you feel so alone and hopeless, but I have also learned over the years that choosing to praise God through the storms instead of running away from Him, is so much more beneficial and gives you the source of peace and comfort that you need.
There’s nothing better for us to glory in!
So, wherever you are today, take a moment to lean on the Savior who will never leave nor forsake you. Be comforted by the knowledge that He works all things together for good. And have faith that no matter what trials you face in this life, they are not even worth comparing with the joy that awaits you.
Your struggle is never too big for God. And no matter how hopeless you feel, there is a hope greater than your sorrow. Choose to live that truth today.
You’ve got this, sister. I promise you will get through this storm, and God will use it as a part of your story. The pain you’re experiencing, can’t compare to the joy that is coming.
I pray this was an encouragement to you, and pray you know that even in the hardest battle, God is fighting for you and it is all apart of His perfect plan. Keep pushing on and continue on the process of healing. Don’t give up, you can get through this.
I love you so much and I am always here for you!
Much love,
Carsyn Claire!
Saved by Grace 