Praising God in the Storm: Finding Faith in Difficult Seasons
This season has been a hard one for me.Β God's Girl Gifts and Apparel is not moving along as well as I'd like, my daughter's survivorship check, which helps pay the bills in our house, has been cancelled, along with her insurance. My mortgage went up $300/month, and I had to buy a new car because I was in a car accident. Without gap insurance, I am now making two car payments that total almost $700/month instead of one car payment of $240/month. I've been depressed and overwhelmed.
BUT -- I still praise God.
Why? Because through it all, He has been there. I'm not behind on my mortgage, I've got a really great car that I've needed for a long time, myΒ kidsΒ are healthy and happy, we have food on the table, and I have a part-time job to help supplement things. I also know that He will help us through this next part where we will be without my daughter's check.
Leaning on God's Promises
In times like these, itβs easy to feel defeated and overwhelmed by the waves of adversity crashing against us. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that our faith is tested and refined. The Bible provides us with numerous examples and promises that encourage us to maintain our faith and praise God, even in the midst of trials.
- James 1:2-4 (NIV): "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
This verse reminds us that our trials are not in vain. They serve a purpose in Godβs grand design for our lives, strengthening our faith and building our character.
- Romans 8:28 (NIV): "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Even when circumstances seem dire, God is at work, orchestrating everything for our ultimate good. Trusting in this promise helps us to keep our eyes on Him rather than our problems.
- Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV): "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Turning our worries into prayers and our complaints into praises opens the door for Godβs peace to flood our hearts. Itβs a peace that doesnβt always make sense in the natural, but itβs a peace that sustains us through the toughest seasons.
Finding Reasons to Praise
Despite the challenges youβre facing, there are still countless reasons to praise God. Here are a few that resonate deeply with me:
- Provision: Although your daughter's survivorship check has been canceled, youβre not behind on your mortgage. This is a testament to Godβs provision in your life.
- Blessings: You have a new car that meets your needs, a healthy and happy daughter, and food on the table. These blessings are significant and worth celebrating.
- Strength: The fact that youβre able to work a part-time job to supplement your income during this tough time shows Godβs strength at work in you.
Encouragement for the Journey
Remember that praising God in the storm doesnβt mean ignoring your struggles or pretending everything is perfect. It means choosing to focus on Godβs goodness and faithfulness despite your circumstances. It means believing that He is with you, He cares for you, and He will see you through to brighter days.
In closing, I want to leave you with one more scripture that has been a beacon of hope for many:
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV): "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
As you continue to navigate this challenging season, hold onto this promise. God is with you, He will strengthen you, and He will uphold you. Praise Him in the storm, and watch as He transforms your trials into testimonies of His unfailing love and faithfulness.