Trials and Sorrows

It’s easy to become weary when we focus on our sadness. Jesus warned us about these times in John 16:33, “… Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows …”

While taking Jesus’ words to heart, what could happen if we shifted our focus? I’m not saying ignore what’s around you, but to stop dwelling on it.

Why Sadness?

If we know seasons of sadness, then, that means to have a comparison, we must also know seasons that weren’t sad. What would happen in our thought process if we realized we’ve been restored—even if it was just for a short period of time? Is there life after brokenness?

Did you come from a broken home?
Have you gone through a painful divorce?
Has life seemed so dark that suicide was a viable option?

Don’t Stop Reading Yet

What you’re going through may truly be an outrageously sad time. But keep reading John 16:33, because there’s more to the verse, “…But take heart, because I have overcome the world”.

Ta-Da!

There’s life after darkness! Our Heavenly Father is the source of restoration. When we give our hurts to the Ultimate Healer, it’s amazing how our view can change.

When we give our hurts to the Ultimate Healer, it’s amazing how our view can change.

Know that sadness awaits us all. Our lives are typically in one of three holding patterns:

1. We are in the middle of a dark situation
2. We just came through a difficult time and are standing in emotional sunshine
3. We are about to be blind-sided by an experience that can potentially rock our world

Consider this:

Sheila Walsh released a new book, Holding On When You want to Let Go. She has a way to zero in on getting past trials and sorrows.

If you came from a broken home, you can help others work through the pain experienced in their home life.

If you felt the pain of divorce and have opened your life and let in Jesus’ love, you may have a wealth of knowledge to share with those traversing oceans of unforgiveness.

If you know what it’s like to experience God’s mercy after contemplating suicide, you know better than anyone else what the sweet taste of grace is like.

Allow God to Use Your Trials and Sorrows

Allow God’s words to comfort and empower you. Let Hebrews 13:5’s word, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”, resonate in your heart. Know the message from 2 Corinthians 1:4, “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” is meant for you as well.

Sadness will visit us, but we don’t have to allow it to live with us.

He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Corinthians 1:4

You’re not alone in your trials and sorrows. Seek God while you’re there. You may be surprised by what you see.

What say you?

What do you wonder about?  Are you happy … or are you doing what you never thought you’d do? Do you see consistencies … or are you all over the place? Drop me a line. I’d love to chat.

Struggling to find good in your life? Check out my award-winning book, God’s Best During Your Worst, or check out any of my other books on my Book page.