4 Ways to Get Through Hard Times

There is a great deal of stuff happening in our world right now – the lasting effects of the pandemic, economic inflation, rampant hatred of others, and global power struggles. It’s enough to stress one out. Here are four ways to get through hard times.

1. Pray. Whatever struggles we face, it is always comforting to talk it out with someone. A listening ear always seems to help calm our anxiety. Prayer is that conversation with God where we talk it out with our Father who wants to know what’s going on in our life. But remember that this should not be a one-sided conversation. We also need to listen to what God has to say to us. This is where we will find the true inner peace that only Jesus can provide.
2. Recall God’s blessings. When hard times hit home, it’s easy to fall into the bottomless pit of negativity. We say things like, “Why is this happening to me?” or, “Why can’t I get over this?” When we’re standing in the dark, it’s nearly impossible to see the light. But when we recall all of the blessings that we have been given, we then become enlightened by the light. We become fully aware that things may not be as bad as we think because we have been blessed by the love of God. When we change our view from negative to positive, our entire perspective will transform for the better.
3. Focus on others. During our sufferings, we tend to focus on ourselves and all that we are enduring. But when we are in this funk of life, this is the best time to focus on others and their needs. When we give of ourselves, we not only put our burdens to the side, but we are then able to focus our full attention to helping those who are dealing with their own struggles. We lighten our load when we help carry the weight of others.
4. Be patient. We live in a world of instant gratification. If we don’t get what we want when we want it, we’re not happy. But as we find ourselves between a rock and a hard place, we want a way out and we want it now. It’s during these times when we need to be patient and trust in the Lord. The struggles we encounter are learning experiences. God may be using this time to teach us so that we can help others at another time as they face similar situations. We have to be patient and enjoy the beauty of the journey knowing that God is always with us. God will answer our prayers, just not according to our schedule.

Remember, when you hit rock bottom there are only two ways to go: straight up or sideways. If we follow these four steps, we will not eliminate the trials in our lives, but we will begin to understand how these will help us to cope a little bit better while pointing us in the right direction.

Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 4: 6-7

Beloved, do not be surprised that a trial by fire is occurring among you, as if something strange were happening to you. But rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that when his glory is revealed you may also rejoice exultantly.  ~1 Peter 4: 12-13

Looking for ways to pray during Lent? Check this out.