14 Feb by Mindy CM –
Everyone will experience problems and obstacles – big ones that seem unsolvable, or small ones that cause inconveniences. Problems and troubles that are ruminated on grow bigger and bigger. However, 2 Corinthians 4v17 says that “For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!”
The troubles in our lives should not diminish our faith or disillusion us. We should realize that there is a purpose in our suffering, and that problems and human limitations have several benefits!
First of all, they should remind us of Christ’s suffering for us. One effective way of putting our troubles into perspective is to remember how much Jesus loves us, so much so that He was willing to come down to earth, and die a horrible death so that we might be with Him in heaven. Whilst our troubles right now are real, we can remember and meditate on Christ’s love for us, instead of ruminating about our troubles.
Troubles that we face will keep us from pride. More often than not, we will need help when we are in trouble. As humans we tend to want to rely on our own strength and understanding, but sometimes problems that are too big for us to handle turn our worlds upside down – and we need help from the people around us, and help from our heavenly Father. Proverbs 29:23 says “Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honour”. Yes, troubles can keep our pridefulness in check.
Troubles will also cause us to look beyond this brief life. Ecclesiastes 6v12 says “In the few days of our meaningless lives, who knows how our days can best be spent? Our lives are like a shadow. Who can tell what will happen on this earth after we are gone?” Live on earth is but a blip when we compare it to eternity. Day in and day out we may face problems, but let us use it as a reminder that our time here on earth is not a long one. Keep your eyes on the destination ahead!
Our faith, tested during times of troubles will also be proven. When we continue to seek God and turn to Him even when we face difficulties, people around us will know where we stand. It is indeed hard to look forward to God’s blessings when we feel everything in going wrong, but remember Philippians 4:6 – Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. We simply have to pray, and have faith that God will come through.
Though troubles may cause us lots of discomfort and despair, they give God the opportunity to demonstrate His power. Choose to see your troubles as opportunities, and let God turn the situation around for you as let God turn life’s ‘tests’ into ‘testimonies’.
Dear Viewers in Christ, if you find this article edifying to you, please share with your friends or loved ones by using the social media plugs (Share, Email to this article). The Lord will surely bless you as you bless others. May the Lord’s peace and love be with you. Amen.
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