Hardship is often closely accompanied with an uncertainty of what to do, especially when a trial comes unexpectedly. You may have known suffering is guaranteed, but this? Now? If you’re numb with shock or lost in a dizzying swirl of emotions, here are three things you can do to focus your thoughts.
#1 — Remember the truth you learned in the beginning
The Bible is chock full of commands to remember, remember, remember everything God has done for you— as well as plenty of examples of people who fell away because they didn’t (like 1 Kings 11:4). Whether you are on a mountain top or in a valley, it is clear that we are to remember.
“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.”
-Psalm 77:11-12
Look back, make a list, how has God brought you safely thus far? Reflections on the mountains He has helped you conquer in the past not only soothes anxiety about the future but fills you with confidence that He will do it again (Isaiah 43:19).
#2 — Meditate on His commandments
Scripture calls us to read God’s word, but does that really have to be done in the morning? Psalm 1:2 says that the righteous man meditates (or mumble to oneself) on the law of the Lord day and night. Don’t just read one time but think about and apply the concepts throughout your day.
Reading your Bible is a relational thing you should want to engage in whenever time can be made to do so (Psalm 119:97). While your mind is likely the clearest from many to-dos in the morning, God is after our hearts, so what matters is that we are seeking to spend time in His word, not when we are doing so.
It is that time that you want to be leaning into, especially amidst hardship. As Psalm 63:5-6 says, we are the most satisfied when with abiding with our Savior, and God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. If you want to get through a trial, lean into the One who has a purpose for you to go through it.
#3 — Rejoice
Our greatest depression comes from listening to ourselves instead of talking to ourselves. Well, that fits nicely with how a primary way to fight your battles is to sing. Instead of listening to how down in the dumps you are, remind yourself of all you can rejoice about.
“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”
-Psalm 43:5
No matter how bleak our circumstances may be, we have reason reason to rejoice because Christ is risen. Our biggest problem has been resolved! Our situation will never be perfect, but we can sing knowing that God has a purpose for every twinge of heartbreak. Live out the reality of that truth.