If you do nothing in a difficult time, your strength is limited. Proverbs 24:10 HCSB
I have faced difficult times in my life and even wondered why God was allowing certain circumstances. I have observed others who seem to face impossible situation with faith and confidence in God. I remember one family that lost both of their sons in automobile accidents in the same year. Another gentleman lost is wife in an accident and then he himself was almost killed in a separate accident. Another lady lost both of her sons, one of whom was killed by the police. I have also known of people facing the loss of a job and dealing with financial difficulties. There are numerous examples of people facing difficult times. The book of Job is the classic story of a faithful man of God who suffered the loss of his family and nearly all of his possessions but remained faithful to God. We often do not understand why difficulties come, but as we handle each challenge, it helps us to grow, develop character, and trust God to bring good out of our suffering.
This verse reminds us that we can be certain that we will face difficult times, but it is important how we handle them. Our response to difficulties determines our character and willingness to work to overcome the challenges we face. Times of trouble can be helpful if we learn from them. Difficulties will show our real character and our ability to handle adversity. Jeremiah questioned God when troubles came his way, but God reminded him that if he was going to handle big challenges in life he had to first learn how to take care of the smaller challenges (Jeremiah 12:5).
Challenge: Do not complain about your problems; instead thank God for the difficulties. Look at your problems as opportunities to grow and mature. The troubles you face today are training for the more difficult situations you will face in the future. We must trust God even when we do not understand, knowing that He wants only what is best for each of us. God can always bring good out of our suffering.