Experiencing Trust, Peace, and Rest During Troubling Times
“Why do bad things always happen to me?”
Anyone with an empathetic ear has probably heard this question many times. One of the wonderful things about being a Christ-follower and a member of a church fellowship is that we have the privilege of coming alongside others and helping them through difficult circumstances.
As we walk alongside others who are experiencing difficult times, it’s essential to remain faithful to what Scripture teaches us.
We live in a world that has been affected by sin to the extent that everything and everybody experiences its repercussions (Rom 8:22; ISA 59:1-2).
Scripture tells us that we will experience tribulation, and sadly, due to the sinfulness of the world, it is something we will encounter regularly (Jn 16:33).
Followers of Jesus are promised peace and rest if we trust in Him through our circumstances (Jn 14:27).
Peace is a fruit of the Spirit and is promised to those who faithfully seek a relationship with the Lord.
As followers of Jesus, we have hope in the outcomes of the circumstances. We are promised that, even though it may be terrible and difficult to understand, the result of the tribulation will be used for good (Rom 8:28-29).
When we trust in the peace that only Jesus gives, we have rest—trust and peace equal rest (Matt 11:28).
Resting in the Lord comes when we patiently wait for Him to do His work through the circumstances we are experiencing (Ps 37:7). This takes trust, though! This level of trust shows itself as a firm belief that God loves us as His children and wants what is best for us. When we ACTIVELY love Him with all our heart, soul, and strength, we glorify Him. When we trust what He is doing through the circumstances in our lives, no matter how hard, we bring Him honor and glory.
When others ask, “Why do bad things always happen to me?” help them shift their focus from the circumstances they see, to faith in the Savior, the One who has all authority in heaven and on earth; the One who will give us peace and rest for our souls (Matt. 28:18; 28-30).