What do we do when everything isn’t okay? How do we respond when life is hard? This morning I spoke to a friend who lost her job out of the blue, leaving her in a state of confusion. A few hours later, another friend called sharing concern over a nodule that was discovered during her annual exam. During our normal routine, life can take us by surprise. What are we supposed to do? Does God see? Does He understand?
When Things Are Not Going Our Way
We have moments…possibly even seasons…when our world seems to be caving in. When nothing seems to be going our way. Times when we can’t catch our breath as the waves keep crashing in. It is okay to say that everything isn’t okay.
In such desperate times, we react. Some of us dig in, determined to work our way out of the hole. We hunker down. Take control. Think we can do this thing all by ourselves. Others become wanderers, looking for temporary, earthly stuff to fill us up. Like chocolate or a shopping spree with friends. We lose our way. Give in to discouragement. We seek comfort to ease the pain.
It is an uneasy, uncomfortable, and unsatisfactory feeling living life without answers. Not knowing what to do. No light at the end of the tunnel. Unsure when our lives will turn around. Times like this are hard.
Take a Step Back.
When you feel your emotions spiraling out of control, turn to God’s Word. If you see yourself looking for comfort from food, recreation, relationships, material stuff…anything other than God…redirect your thinking to the Gospel.
Stop and Reassess.
What are you thinking? Feeling? Doing? Are you in line with God’s Word? It may be time to go back to square one: God’s Word. Our rock. Our sure foundation. When our actions are out of line by seeking control, power, approval, or comfort…its time to sink our teeth into the promises of God. God’s Word is truth. It will always be the truth, whether it feels like it or not. Our emotions can easily lead us astray.
The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Ps. 18:2
Ask for Help.
Much like a thermometer, our emotions can detect what is going on within. Just remember, emotions should detect, not dictate. Our emotions can help reveal areas where we are struggling with unbelief. Areas where we are soul-sick.
Take Heart.
Jesus has come for the sick. Mark 2:17 says, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.” One day, everything will be made right. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4). Jesus is our hope.
What does your current struggle reveal regarding your belief about God? Is He big enough for your problem? It is okay to admit that everything isn’t okay.