Life is full of questions that challenge our faith. One of the most difficult questions we wrestle with is, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” This question doesn’t just touch our minds; it pierces our hearts, especially when we or someone we love experiences pain and suffering. As believers, it can be hard to reconcile the goodness of God with the reality of our trials. But today, I want to explore this question through the lens of scripture and personal experience.
Tests, Trials, and Lessons
Many of us face tests in life—moments that stretch us, shape us, and refine our faith. Sometimes, we pass those tests, and other times, we have to face them again because we didn’t fully grasp the lesson the first time. I’ve been there. Maybe you have, too.
The story of Joseph in the Bible gives us an incredible example of someone who faced test after test but remained faithful to God. Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers, falsely accused, and imprisoned. Yet, he never lost sight of God’s purpose for his life.
Joseph wasn’t just a dreamer; he was a deliverer. God placed him in those difficult situations for a greater purpose—to save others. Sometimes, we need a Joseph in our lives, someone who can help us see God’s hand in our trials. Other times, we are called to be a Joseph for someone else, using our experiences to lift others out of their own valleys.
The Valley Leads to the Mountain
When we’re in the middle of our struggles, it’s easy to ask, “Why me?” But God often uses the valleys to prepare us for the mountaintops. The deeper the valley, the higher the mountain.
Think about a skyscraper. For every story that rises above ground, there’s a foundation that extends far below it. Our spiritual growth works the same way. The greater the height God plans for us, the deeper He must build our foundation. It’s in the valley that we learn to lean on Him, to trust His timing, and to surrender our pride.
James 1:2-4 reminds us: “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.”
Trials are not a sign of God’s absence; they are often a sign of His preparation. He is molding us, shaping us, and equipping us for something greater.
Surrendering Our Pride
One of the hardest lessons we learn in the valley is surrender. Pride has a way of creeping into our hearts, even when we don’t realize it. We want to do things our way, solve our problems in our strength, and control the outcome. But God calls us to a place of humility, where we can truly say, “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42).
There’s something powerful about being face-down in the presence of God. It’s in those moments of surrender that He strips away our self-reliance and fills us with His strength. If you’ve ever been brought to your knees in prayer, you know how transformative that place can be. It’s where pride is replaced with purpose, and fear is replaced with faith.
The Importance of Community
Another lesson we learn in our trials is the value of community. When we isolate ourselves, we give the enemy a foothold. But when we come together, we find strength, encouragement, and support.
Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
There is power in gathering with others who share our faith. It’s not just about hearing a message; it’s about being reminded that we’re not alone. When we come together, we see that others are facing similar battles, and we can lift each other up in prayer.
God’s Purpose in Our Pain
When we’re in the midst of suffering, it can be hard to see the purpose behind it. But Romans 8:28 gives us this promise: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
God doesn’t waste our pain. He uses it to refine us, to draw us closer to Him, and to fulfill His greater plan. Just as Joseph’s trials prepared him to save a nation, our trials prepare us to fulfill our calling.
Sometimes, we won’t see the full picture until we’re on the other side of eternity. But we can trust that God is faithful. He sees the end from the beginning, and His plans for us are good.
Standing Firm in Faith
One of the most powerful things we can do in the midst of our trials is to stand firm in our faith. Whether we’re on the mountaintop or in the valley, God calls us to remain steadfast.
Ephesians 6:13 says, “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
Standing firm doesn’t mean we won’t feel pain or doubt. It means we choose to trust God’s promises, even when we don’t understand His plan. It means we worship Him in the valley as much as we do on the mountaintop.
A Call to Action
As I reflect on the lessons God has taught me through trials, I’m reminded that our purpose as believers isn’t just to endure hardship—it’s to grow through it and to help others do the same. We are called to be conduits of God’s love, grace, and truth in a hurting world.
So, let me ask you: How can you be a Joseph in someone’s life? Who can you encourage, support, or pray for? And how can you allow God to use your pain for His glory?
If you’re in a season of struggle, know that you’re not alone. God is with you, and He has a purpose for your pain. He’s building something beautiful in you, even if you can’t see it yet. Trust Him. Surrender to Him. And let Him use you to make an impact in the lives of others.
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