Navigating Joy In Hardship
Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. Psalm 30:5 (ESV)
Several close friends are in seasons of hardship, walking through devastating losses, grief or illness. You probably don’t have to look far to see similar situations or perhaps the suffering is in your own life. At one time or another, we all walk through challenging scenarios where hope may diminish or disappear altogether. Intense suffering can take a toll: physically, financially and emotionally.
With Easter approaching I am reminded of Christ’s suffering He endured while on this earth. He dealt with intense physical and emotional pain. Not only at the cross, but as a result of the betrayal by one of His close followers. That level of hurt brought on by Judas would have devastated many of us. I imagine Jesus felt great anxiety, that was off the charts, just before his arrest, trial and crucifixion. However, Jesus knew He was never alone and recognized the depth of God’s love for Him. It may be difficult at times but we can know and believe these truths as well.
One option is to turn to God and the Bible for encouragement. If you are in a time of deep struggle and answers may not be clear, or you know someone who is, these suggestions, which I know from my own experience, may help. These steps have the power to transform our minds, strengthen us, and hopefully give us the peace that surpasses our own understanding:
Keep our hearts seeking God, this shows others where our strength comes from.
Look for where you see God at work and recognize His goodness everyday.
Trust what the Bible offers is for comfort and courage–we need to read it to see it.
Remember earthly security is uncertain, but God is always faithful.
Just as Easter morning was a joyful event for the followers of Jesus, we can trust JOY will come in the morning, even amidst our times of mourning. Remember the Joy of the Lord is our strength. (Nehemiah 8:10)
Dear Father,
You are a good, good Father in this world of turmoil and trouble. Pour Your Holy Spirit into our lives, especially when we are hurting or walking through a painful season. Give us eyes to see You at work in our lives everyday. Even Jesus suffered greatly, faced horrific circumstances, and wept, therefore, give us assurance that you catch every tear we shed. Help us to realize Your great love and most of all help us trust You, the maker of heaven and earth. Jesus, thank you for teaching us to keep in union with our Heavenly Father during our times of deep distress. Thank you for coming to earth and dying for those in the world. May we know the love of God, who rules heaven and earth and has a permanent home waiting for us. -AMEN
(Psalm 107:1, Proverbs 20:10, John 11:35, Psalm 121:2, John 17:21, John 3:16)
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