Here’s a truth that I heard from my Grandpa a very long time ago: he taught me that we don’t grow during the moments of praises and accolades as much as we grow during life’s tough times.
It is the hard times that often make us grow!
In James 1, it says:
“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.“
When I go through these seasons in my life, the silence can be deafening. I wonder where God is. My mind tends to wander, providing an environment for endless speculation.
I often fall into asking myself an unending string of questions:
Should I have done this or that differently? What if I had said this? Why don’t they see things the way I see them?
Those questions lots of times have no answers. The range of emotions I feel can be crippling.
I’ve learned that the key to thriving in these seasons is to focus on God and remember that He is with us. It’s so important to pray and declare the promises we find in God’s Word. Instead of allowing our minds to drift or think negative thoughts, we should worship and praise Him!
When we focus on God, our attitudes start change. When I praise and worship Him, I find that my worries and unsettling thoughts disappear. I’m less discouraged by circumstances or concerned by a lack of recognition. The unknown becomes less terrifying, and I find meaning and encouragement by serving Him.
So today, fill your mind with God’s Word.
Seek Him.
Praise Him.
Worship Him.
Make God your focus. Be confident that He is with you. Let His presence overwhelm you.
“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:8-9
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This is real truth right here, I’m walking through a tough season, Thank You for posting, I needed to read this I need to keep reminding myself that God is with Us during these Tough Times God Bless!!
Lori,
You’re more than welcome! I’m sorry to hear that you’re walking through a tough season. HE is there for you. Never forget that!
Chad
Thank you. I needed to be reminded of this this very day.
Love it. Happy it “hit you” at the perfect time 🙂
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Chad
Wonderful message! Thank you and God bless.
You’re so welcome, Brenda! Thanks for being part of the Star 99.1 family 🙂
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Chad
Thank you! I needed to hear this as my family is going through a rough patch now. I know God is with us, but I still get nervous not knowing how He is going to work things out. Encouragement really helps
I’m praying for you, Teresa. Remember, we are all just rough drafts of the people we are becoming. HE will work things out!
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Chad
Thank you! It felt so Good reading Gods word and your message just affirm to focus on God rather than my thoughts. 🙏🏽
Amen, Claudia ❤
So Great!!!!! Yes, the trying times are the times to realize God is with us. Life is a rollercoaster of good and bad situations, but He stays alongside us through it all!!! Thank you, Chad, for this great reminder!!!!!
Yes!!!! Trying to carry the weight of everything on your shoulders isn’t faith, it’s exhausting! HE says cast your burdens upon me…
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Chad
Thank you for this, Chad!!!! Yes, these hardships are just tests of our faith in God’s power and protection. “Just be held” is what Casting Crowns’ song tell us – and that’s all we need!!! Thank you again, Chad!!!