Tough Times Dont Last
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."- James 1:2-4
Yesterday, we began talking about the importance of having a tough times theology. We discussed two of five principles we can apply to our lives when it comes to dealing with tough times. If you missed yesterday's devotion, I strongly urge you to go back and read it. But for today, we're going to discuss the remaining three principles that, if applied, can really help you in the midst of tough times.
The third principle you must understand is that tough times offer opportunities. When we go through hard times, it is an opportunity for you to bless others. It is one thing for you to receive help, but it is easier to give help. Tough times will provide you with an opportunity to help someone else. Don't minimize the ministry that you do in tough times for people who are also walking through difficult times.
Fourth, you must realize that tough times refine your faith. When you go through tough times, that is when your faith is refined. You will grow more in tough times than when you are being blessed. I wish it was the other way around; that you would grow more in blessed times, but that's just not the case.
When God blesses you, it is easy to take that for granted and say, “Thank you, God.†It is in the tough times when your faith is refined. The Bible says in James, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (James 1:2-4).
Finally, you must remember that tough times don't last. Whatever you do, don't identify with tough times and say, "That must be who I am." This is not who you are. Tough times may come, but tough times will not last. God has a plan for your life, even in the brokenness, pain, and desperation that you may feel. It may be Friday for you, but Sunday is coming. You need to focus on what God is doing and where He will take you in the days to come.
Yesterday, we began talking about the importance of having a tough times theology. We discussed two of five principles we can apply to our lives when it comes to dealing with tough times. If you missed yesterday's devotion, I strongly urge you to go back and read it. But for today, we're going to discuss the remaining three principles that, if applied, can really help you in the midst of tough times.
The third principle you must understand is that tough times offer opportunities. When we go through hard times, it is an opportunity for you to bless others. It is one thing for you to receive help, but it is easier to give help. Tough times will provide you with an opportunity to help someone else. Don't minimize the ministry that you do in tough times for people who are also walking through difficult times.
Fourth, you must realize that tough times refine your faith. When you go through tough times, that is when your faith is refined. You will grow more in tough times than when you are being blessed. I wish it was the other way around; that you would grow more in blessed times, but that's just not the case.
When God blesses you, it is easy to take that for granted and say, “Thank you, God.†It is in the tough times when your faith is refined. The Bible says in James, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (James 1:2-4).
Finally, you must remember that tough times don't last. Whatever you do, don't identify with tough times and say, "That must be who I am." This is not who you are. Tough times may come, but tough times will not last. God has a plan for your life, even in the brokenness, pain, and desperation that you may feel. It may be Friday for you, but Sunday is coming. You need to focus on what God is doing and where He will take you in the days to come.
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5 Comments
Need Jesus to heal my lungs from asthma and right knee pain . Jesus never ever puts sickness or disease on His own kids just to teach them a lesson
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I have a friend named Deb that goes to Westside that has bone cancer. She has taken different medications but nothing has agreed with her system. One of them has caused her great pain. She is very weak at this time. My friends and I have been praying for her. But, she can use lots more to comfort her
I just sent up a prayer ?
Father God, I lift up Debbie and Stephen Spano to you for your healing and pain relief. We know that you God can do anything. No disease or affliction is beyond your power to remove. Thank you Father for your Faithfulness to always hear and answer the prayers of your children, those of us who belong to you beseech your help and healing for them both. All Glory, Honor and Praise is Yours Always, in every situation we find ourselves let us see your hand and worship you alone. In Christ Jesus, Amen ?
I just sent up a prayer ?
Faith believes all things. If you believe this, then all you need to do is pray. THE EFFECTUAL FERVENT PRAYER OF A RIGHTEOUS MAN AVAILES MUCH. In the name of Jesus all things are possible.