Life is good, but sometimes it can be hard. Trials and temptations come to all of us, often arriving without warning. Some can be extremely difficult and different than anything we could have imagined.

The worst part is the battle that takes place in our mind. Weeks turn into months. It’s exhausting and we might want to give up.

Take courage my Christian friend. You may not be called to only believe in him, but also to suffer his sake (Philippians 1:29). Perhaps now, for a little while, the genuineness of your faith is being proven by how you face these trials, but remmeber that God is in full control.

I know you might feel alone and may not even speak to anyone about it. But understand there is someone else who has experienced the exact same thing. Be encouraged by that. Trust in Christ to strengthen you enough to endure. God will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear and will provide a way of escape. He has a purpose and will not allow us to fail (Psalm 125:3).

Soon, it will all make sense. Perhaps there is someone else experiencing a very hard time. They know God is in control, but they can’t bear another moment. They’re thinking no one can understand what they’re going through. You are about to surprise them.

Father, though trials bring us grief, we are thankful that you allow them for a purpose. We know that our faith must be tested as gold refined through fire, so that we will be found to praise, honor and glory when Jesus Christ is revealed. Help us show others this as well. Amen.

Go Deeper — Our sister website, Issues I Face has many stories about issues others have been through. Click on some of them and the corresponding articles to receive perspective and comfort. Opt to talk with one of our mentors as well. If you know someone who is suffering right now, show them the website as well.

Read Further — Talk about suffering. Read This Sucks and other things Jesus didn’t say.



Tags: 1 & 2 Corinthians 2 Corinthians 1
Photo Credit: Maria Shanina