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Don’t Panic!

March 19, 2014 cm-admin Inspire 0

19 March 2014 by Mindy Oon CM-

Do you feel like you are going through a time of testing in your life? Or are you struggling with a situation that you simply want to avoid? Are you contemplating running away from the situation you are in right now? John 16:33 says, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

The truth is, we will all go through hard times and we can either trust God to help us deal with them, or we can choose to go into panic mode and give up. If we give up, we will not be able to move forward and experience what God has in store for us. Sometimes, God allows us to go through difficulties so that we grow in our faith and develop Christ-like character. Trials and temptations reveal what is really inside our hearts, and until we really have to deal with a situation, we really do not know what we would do. Trials test us.

James 1:2-4 says:

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of you faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

We can choose to face the trails and tests that we go through with joy or we can choose to complain and grumble all the way. However, when we understand that it is through them that we learn how to live in God’s peace, joy and wisdom, we will be able to navigate our way through with joy. Here are a few things to consider to help you pass your tests with flying colors…

Seek God’s Strength

When we face hard times, it is so easy to revert to old behaviors, habits or even addictions. For example, one may have quit smoking but still want a cigarette when he or she is upset or stressed.

However, 1 Corinthians 10:13 says:

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

During temptations, god will provide a way out! So when temptation comes, run to Him and ask Him to strengthen you so that you can keep moving forward.

Focus on the Positive

It is always easy to complain and be angry with God when times get tough. We may even resent people who don’t have the same problems that we are facing. However, doing these things will only keep us stuck where we are, and affect our lives in a negative way. Instead, choose to praise God for the blessings that He has already put in your life. Focus on Him and thank Him. As you do so, you will see all the good things that are happening in your life, and you will realize how much you already have. Start counting your blessings!

Trust God when You Don’t Have The Answers

At one time or another, we have all probably asked “What am I going to do?” or “Why is this happening to me?” Instead of wondering why and worrying, we need to tell ourselves “Don’t panic! God is still in control!” Every test and trail will pass. And we will get through it with more peace and joy if we trust God to do what is best for us at the right time, according to His will.

Wait on God’s Timing

Sometimes it is very tempting to take matters in our own hands and make something happen on our own. However, when we take matters into our own hands, often times we delay or miss the blessing that God has for us. Instead, we need to make sure to trust God, and wait on His timing in all that we do. The dream might have been given to you by God and you really want it to come to past. But until we learn to rely on Him and His timing, we will find ourselves facing all kinds of problems. Trust Him and lean on Him.

God loves each and everyone of us so very much and He has great plans for our lives. The next time you feel that you are being tested, don’t panic, trust that God knows what is happening and that he will work it out for good. With every test that you go through, you will get closer to God.