How to be Thankful When Undergoing Adversity

Introduction:

Christians disagree on whether all things are from God or not. This writer believes that God does not necessarily originate every bad or harsh thing, but as our all powerful Creator he will often allow hardship and sorrow to impact our lives. Don’t agree? Read on.

Things You Will Need:

Belief and faith in God

Spirituality

Step 1:

Why should we be thankful for hard times? This writer does not believe we should jump for joy at sorrow and tragedy but, rather, we should use these situations to grow spiritually and draw close to our Lord. I believe in the literal existence of Satan, that he is the father of darkness and death and we should not allow him his victories without extracting a price – that price being a closer relationship with our Lord when times are difficult for us. Drawing nearer to God when undergoing adversity is something to be thankful for.

Step 2:

To say that we are thankful when undergoing trial is misleading. However, we should not exclude the possibility that our Lord uses adversity in our lives to assist us to grow spiritually and improve our relationships with Him. To continue the thought from Step 1, does God himself place hardship in front of us? I believe at times, yes, He does. Just because we are faithful Christian believers does not exempt us from trial and tribulation.

Step 3:

When undergoing trial, focus on what is happening and why, for you may very well realize God is using a situation to get your attention. If this is the case, be grateful that God loves and cares about you enough to bother.

Step 4:

Adversity will strengthen you. The saying, “whatever does not kill you makes you stronger,” is true, especially when taken in context to our spiritual lives. God will not cause you to suffer more than you can bear. Rejoice in this and be thankful.

Tips:

From Step 2: Look at the heroes of the Bible – those closest to God and Jesus Christ. They are the ones who suffered the most in this earthly existence. But, they became the people God wished them to be – and THAT is something to be thankful for!

Sometimes God challenges us, sometimes Satan. Whichever is the case, you are not required to like it but you do have a responsibility to handle adversity in a positive, Christian manner. You will become a better Christian person if you seek God’s guidance and assistance. Be thankful for an enriched relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Warnings:

All misery comes from Satan. Forget that at your peril, even when our Lord allows him leeway in our lives.

There is no guarantee of happiness, riches, health, success or any other valuable thing in this life. Trust the Lord and be thankful for His love. He hasn’t forsaken you, even if at times it seems like it. 

Comments (1)

Margie Lynn said:

	... Loved your article, thanks for sharing.
	report abuse vote down vote up

July 25, 2010
Votes: +0