by Dr. Kenneth Kuykendall
Everyone knows that trials are a part of life; no one is exempt from hardships, headaches, and heartbreaks. The Bible tells us to “count it all joy” when we face such calamity; but anyone going through something would admit that counting it all joy is easier said than done.
God allows adversity to come into our lives for specific reasons; so instead of asking God WHY- try asking Him WHAT, HOW, and WHO!
1. What Can I Learn from This Trial?
The tragedy of a trial is not actually going through a trial, but rather going through a trial and not learning anything. Many times we go through repeated trials because we fail to learn what God is trying to teach us. If you are going through the same old trial time after time again, it may be because God is attempting to teach you something very specific about your life.
2. How Can I Get Better in This Trial?
The difference between those who succeed and those who fail is attitude. Those who murmur and complain will rarely turn their tragedy into a triumph; but those who use their setbacks for stepping stones will always advance ahead. William Martson said, “If there is any single factor that makes for success in living, it is the ability to draw dividends from defeat.”
3. Who Can I Help by Going Through This Trial?
God will never waste a trial. Have you ever thought that the trial you face is actually for someone else? The Apostle Paul revealed this in the book of Philippians when he said, “I would ye should understand brethren that the things which have happened to me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel…and many of the brethren in the Lord are waxing confident by my bonds.” Take what you have learned through your adversity and instill those values into someone who is going through a similar trial; you may have went through the storm just to help someone who is struggling on the shore.
While going through adversity learn to ask the right questions- it is only then you will receive the right answers!
Article submitted to IndependentBaptist.com