Hard times will come to your life. No matter how much you try to avoid or eliminate them, you will always face new challenges. The only way to truly overcome these times is to realize they will end and appreciate them for the lessons they teach you.
Hard Times Will Always End
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
During the first century, many Christians were persecuted because they believed in Jesus. Aside from this, many believers were surrounded by people and things that could lead them away from God. Peter writes this letter in response encouraging them to remain faithful to God and resist the Devil in every way. Although they faced many struggles, God will give them the strength to endure and overcome them all.
Divine Disruption
The hardest times we’ll face may be through the loss of someone close. This was the case for the Evans family. After losing his life Lois to cancer, Tony Evans and his children went through a time of grieving. Their public display of trusting God during this period inspired thousands across the globe to rely on God in their losses. Today, the family is stronger than ever as they continue to accomplish the work God has given them to do for his Kingdom. You can find out more about their story by reading their book Divine Disruption.
Hard Times Will Teach You New Things
I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Paul faced many hard times throughout his life. As Paul traveled the world preaching the Gospel, he was beaten, stoned, imprisoned, shipwrecked, hated, betrayed, and abandoned. Despite these challenges, Paul learned that contentment in Jesus was the key to overcoming them all. This lesson gave Paul the power to endure his struggles and leave a legacy that changed generations.
Dealing With Loneliness
Because I was bullied as a child, I spent most of my life in isolation. After feeling isolated and depressed for so long, God connected me with so many amazing people from all areas of life. Through their love and support, God showed me that I was valued and more than deserving of building lasting relationships with others.
Overcoming Hard Times
Hard times are going to come. By realizing your challenges will end, you can rely more on God’s strength to endure them. As you embrace these times, you’ll learn lessons that will empower you to have a better future. Begin to see hard times for the growth it brings and you will have a life with God you cannot imagine.
Resources
Divine Disruption: Holding on to Faith When Life Breaks Your Heart
