Seeing the God in the Bad

When we are faced with the trials of life, such as the loss of a loved one, a financial crisis, or a devastating disappointment, it’s easy to lose perspective. The hurt, the pain, or the sting can be so overwhelming that we may take our focus off God and, instead, put it on our situation. But when we learn to look for the presence of the Lord in our circumstances, we may begin to overcome the snares of depression, anxiety, and helplessness.

Jesus never promised heaven on earth. In fact, in speaking with the disciples—His loyal followers—Jesus warned them that they would face many trials and tribulations here on earth. Jesus says in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” My brothers and sisters in Christ, we are not immune to the problems of life. But what separates us from the rest of the world is our hope in Christ, and the comfort we can find in the Holy Spirit.

So how do we deal with the trials of life? What do we do when a spouse walks out? When a child becomes lost to the streets and ends up in jail? After losing a job with no promise of finding a new one right away? When a poor choice leads to personal downfall? In Philippians 4:4–9, Paul outlines a perfect strategy:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” When Paul says “always,” he doesn’t just mean praise God for the good. We need to know how to praise God in the middle of the bad. He is still God and He is always in control.

“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” Even when we are in the midst of a trial, we must remain humble and reflect Christ in our words and actions.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” When the fears creep in and our blood pressure rises, that’s when we need to immediately stop and take our concerns to the Lord in prayer.

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Know that the Holy Spirit will comfort you during your trial so that even when it seems as though everything around you is falling apart, you can have the peace of mind to keep yourself together.

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” My brothers and sisters in Christ, we have to stop focusing on the negative aspects of the situation and see the hand of God at work—it is just as valid to look for what went right as it is to focus on what went wrong. Perspective is everything.

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Study the scriptures and learn from the examples of others. Know that the same God who delivered them can deliver you.

Things may be bad, but God is always good. I’m trusting in Him to get me through!