We all have faced, are facing, or will face some type of hardship, something you think you cannot survive. Whether inflicted by you or by some outer source, suffering is suffering. But there is something greater than your suffering – and that is the power of faith.
Have you ever felt like you had no way out of your pain or suffering? Ever been engulfed by a problem you thought you could never overcome?
Well, I believe if you’ve lived long enough, you have experienced some trial or hardship that had you feeling as though you would never make it to the other side. And if you have never felt that way, then be glad. But I hope that when your time comes, this post will help you overcome.
The truth is that when we encounter great obstacles, our first response may be to hide or flee. That may work for a time, but eventually you must confront the problem or circumstance that lies before you.
When I was younger, I encountered something I could never have imagined I would have to face. As someone who seemingly had a good life (and a good head on my shoulders), you can imagine my dismay at one day having all of that stripped away – and at the mere age of just 21. I had encountered what no one saw coming – a nervous breakdown.
Left with a lack of ability and resources, I was forced to face what seemed impossible at the time – a suffering unimaginable for a young woman who outwardly appeared to have been doing all the right things. Suddenly, I was faced with a wall that seemed too high to climb, and waters too vast to swim.
But things aren’t always how they seem – especially to those who have faith in the unseen.
There was one thing I had that no one and nothing could take away from me. And that was my hope that God could make a way.
See, we have faced, are facing, or will face some type of hardship, something you think you cannot survive. Whether inflicted by you or by some outer source, suffering is suffering. But there is something greater than your suffering – and that is the power of faith.
During my season of suffering, I clung to a promise. A promise that if I kept going, I would see the manifestation of that promise.
Here’s a scripture I clung to:
Isaiah 40:31
“Those who hope in the lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
And so it was.
The way out of suffering is more than a way out – it is a way through. And on the other side, you will not only have gained freedom, but you will also have gained strength.
I hope this post helps someone who may be going through a tough time or edifies someone who needs to hear it again.