Every person experiences trials and tribulations; some more than others. These “trials” aren’t being thrown at us because God is angry or because we have sin in our life. These things occur because we live in a fallen world. They are a result of the fall (Gen. 1-3).
So, when trials come (and they will), what are our options?
There are 2 roads. One is to get our “eyes on our circumstances”. This option can weary us, driving us to discouragement, anger and blame. This road is filled with every try hard or give up strategy that exists. Unfortunately, it can also lead us away from connection with God and others and oftentimes end us in isolation. This is a lonely road; an exhausting road.
So what is option number two? “Eyes on Him.” When we choose to look to Him we can move into relationship. We can ask for peace when there is no understanding of the how or why this trial exists. On this road we position ourselves to seek His love and presence in the midst of pain and confusion. This road doesn’t remove us from our circumstances, but on it we discover the greatest treasure in life: that He is with us and we are never alone.
“Remember, remember, remember: every problem that we face isn’t about the trial and it isn’t about the problem. It’s about the relationship we have and the relationship that we want with God.” Graham Cooke
(Verses to encourage)
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior…” Isaiah 43:1-3
“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2
“…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20
