This is a lovely testimonial that suffering can and will be utilised for amazing Kingdom reasons, even when we can’t stop crying or can barely get out of bed in the morning. Our Savior doesn’t overlook or minimise our difficult times.
Whatever the circumstances may seem like, God is with His people. We can find happiness and pleasure as followers of Christ, even in the most trying situations, and our actions ought to reflect this. Here are a few taken directly from God’s Word.
Be Thankful
More than anyone else in the world, Christians have many reasons to be grateful. Think about the privileges and security we have in Christ and apply 1 Thessalonians 5:18 by being thankful “in everything”—even the difficult times.
Trust God
When resources run low, remember we are only stewards of the portion our Creator allows us to manage. He still owns “the cattle on a thousand hills” and “the earth…and all its fullness” (Psalm 50:10; 24:1). We can trust Him to provide what we truly need.
Pray continuously.
Paul commanded us to pray “without ceasing,” as he himself did (Romans 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; 2 Timothy 1:3). Prayer should be an integral part of our lives, especially during times like these. Paul reminds us, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplications, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6). Like the old hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” says, “Take it to the Lord in prayer!”
Rejoice always
When the world reacts in fear and panic, believers can be a powerful witness because our security doesn’t rest on our bank accounts. Our treasure is in heaven (Matthew 6:20), which no earthly crisis can touch. “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). And let others see your joy.