Perspectives

When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider:  God has made the one as well as the other. Ecclesiastes 7:14

Is God in everything?  Yes.  He is in all things.  Therefore, He is in our bad times, too.  It might not stop us from complaining or feeling anxious, but it can bring a peace to any situation.

We live in a fallen world and are not exempt from human suffering.  Indeed, we will spend time in the Refiner’s Fire as he works to remove the dross and sanctify us.  Don’t be surprised at the bad times, then.  Though it is hard, don’t complain about them.  Consider that such bad times might be necessary to continue God’s work in your life.

When you look at it that way, our trials can take on a new meaning.  Look for what you might need to learn or how you might grow.  Failing that, consider that your endurance might be a blessing to anyone watching…an example of God’s ability to work us through the rough spots.

I chose long ago to receive all things as from the hand of God.  That means I try to accept what seem to be bad things as from Him as well.  I might feel resentful and hurt that I received an unwanted transfer at work, but I can’t see the master plan.  It is possible that such a transfer will open up new opportunities.  This attitude is just another way to consider that God made one as well as the other.