A small sign in my office says, “This Ain’t My First Rodeo.” After thirty years of pastoral ministry, there is little I hadn’t seen or heard. Or so I thought. No one was prepared for a worldwide pandemic. This solidifies the following truth: Challenges will always be with us.
But it’s essential to learn how to work through them in a healthy manner. And while we can’t always control what comes our way, we can manage how we respond. The Bible offers invaluable insight by encouraging us to trust in God’s plan. The Bible is one of the most important resources we have available. No matter what life throws at us, we can trust in the promises of God and find strength in His love and guidance. God is always with us. We can take Him at His Word to bring us hope and comfort. We can pray to Him, seek His help and counsel in our struggles, and find encouragement.
Let me share a few biblical strategies when navigating through challenges.
First of all, taking a break to breathe and reset is necessary to gain perspective and return to a place of calm. This allows you to narrow your focus on the issues at hand and reminds us that we can depend on God’s strength, not our own.
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
As you move forward, it’s important to practice self-care. Doing things that make you feel good, such as exercising, reading, or spending time with loved ones, can help restore balance and well-being.
The Bible also encourages us to pray through our challenges. Prayer is a great way to connect with God and to trust Him with our worries.
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Another way to find comfort during challenging times is by drawing close to the words of scripture. In our struggles, we can find hope by looking to God’s love and mercy and remembering that He will always be close to us. His constant presence illuminates the roads on which we navigate (Psalm 119:105).
If you’re feeling especially overwhelmed, relying on others for help and support is essential. Talking to a trusted individual about your feelings and getting a different perspective can be one of the most helpful ways to work through a challenging situation. Taking care of yourself and your mental health is vital in overcoming a difficult circumstance.
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9
The Bible also encourages us to be thankful. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” This verse reminds us that even when times are hard, we can always be thankful for God’s goodness and grace.
Taking time to appreciate nature’s beauty is a good way to help us restore a sense of peace and calm. Taking time to reflect on the positive aspects of your life, no matter how small, can help keep you motivated and optimistic.
Yes, life will always have challenges. But there is something to learn from each experience, no matter how hard it may be. Acknowledging that every experience is unique and has something to offer will help us overcome these hurdles.
The greatest lesson is when we take the time to reflect on whatever we’ve experienced and understand how it has shaped us and what perspectives we have gained. In doing so, you may discover how these challenges have helped you grow. The best part is that God may use you to help someone else navigate a challenge.