Rising Above Life’s Trials Through Christ

Mar 6 – Mar 27

Turning Oppression into Opportunity

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  03/13/21

Every heartache, every frustration, every disappointment, and every failure is used by God to draw us closer to Him. We may not understand why we have to face opposition at home, on our jobs, or even in our service to Christ, but God knows and understands.

As we trust God in difficult situations, we must ask ourselves, “How can I turn this oppressive situation into an opportunity for God?” Here are some ways to exercise faith in times of trouble.

Realize that God is with you at all times. God never leaves you to face the frustrations of this world alone. If it seems that you cannot hear His voice, be patient, be still and be committed to trusting Him before you make a single move. Faithfulness, obedience, and willingness to wait on the Lord’s timing speak volumes to God.

Keep a positive mindset. Sometimes this can be difficult, but it is absolutely necessary. Maintaining a positive mindset does not mean denying the seriousness of our circumstances or the hurt that we may be feeling. However, it does mean that we willingly keep our eyes set on Christ, knowing that He will fulfill His purpose in our lives.

See the hand of God. Andrew Murray wrote that the storms of life are the advent of God’s coming—”the evidence of His presence” surrounding us. We are His beloved children, and when we hurt, He hurts with us. When we face heartache, He comes to our aid. When we are mistreated, He is grieved and goes to work on our behalf.

Do not lose heart. As you face difficult situations in life, know that God will provide the strength, wisdom, courage, and comfort to help you continue. Take His hand and step forward knowing that whenever life seems impossible, He will give you the strength and the faith to continue moving forward.

Prayer: God, it’s difficult for me to understand why I am going through the struggles that I am, but I know that You can use them to draw me closer to You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“[W]e also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Proverbs 3:5-6).