Persevering Through Hardship

"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." - Romans 8:28

Life is often unfair, unpredictable, and undeniably hard. God does not promise that all things are good in themselves because cancer is not good, divorce is not good, and betrayal is not good. However, God makes a promise that is far more powerful: He promises to work all things together for good.

This verse is often quoted but frequently misunderstood. It does not minimize pain or pretend that bad things do not happen. It does not suggest that we should put a fake smile on our face when our world is falling apart. Instead, it reveals God's incredible sovereignty and His ability to take broken pieces and create something beautiful. He is the Master Weaver who takes the dark threads of our suffering and weaves them into a tapestry of grace. Your hardships are not wasted when they are surrendered to God because He can use your pain to develop your character, expand your ministry, and deepen your reliance on Him. The good He is working toward is ultimately to make us more like Jesus.

Some of my deepest wounds have become my greatest sources of ministry. There was a time when I experienced a profound professional failure, and I felt humiliated and disqualified. I thought my ministry was over. But in that season of brokenness, God did a deep work of humility in my heart. He taught me that my identity was not in my success but in His love. Years later, I have been able to comfort and counsel countless leaders going through similar failures. God took what was meant to destroy me and used it to help others find healing.

If you are going through a difficult season right now, stop asking why is this happening and start asking how might God use this. Ask God to show you one way He might be working for your good or the good of others through this trial.

Lord, I do not understand why I am going through this difficulty, but I trust Your promise. I believe that You are working behind the scenes to bring good out of this bad situation. Help me to persevere with hope and to see Your purpose in my pain. In Jesus' name, Amen.