I try to be a good person and I have high ambitions for myself. But lately I have really been going through trials. I realize I need to face challenges in my life, but I can't understand why I am going through so much right now.
As much as we would like it, there is not always a clear answer regarding the reason for struggles in our lives. On the broadest level, all suffering is the result of sin. When sin entered the world, suffering did, too. Sometimes we take actions that have a direct adverse reaction; at other times we suffer due to another's decision.
Sometimes God allows struggles to come into our life to test us, but His goal is for us to stand stronger. Sometimes Satan causes suffering to tempt us, but his goal is for us to stumble. In either case, God can give you victory. His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9), but among the many reasons God may have for allowing adversity in our lives is so that we can comfort others who face similar struggles. 2 Corinthians 1:4 says, "That we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God."
When you find yourself facing adversity, ask if it was your own doing. If so, pray and ask God's forgiveness and turn from your ways (1 John 1:9). If not, pray for the strength to endure (Ephesians 3:14-16). Finally, pray and thank God that your struggles are not worse. In everything, pray.
Taken from Adrian Rogers' weekly newspaper column. Used by permission. © 2001, The Commercial Appeal.
