Trust During Affliction

There is a biblical thought that I find very hopeful. “I am certain that the afflictions of the present time are not comparable to the glory that is to be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). It is impossible to live on planet Earth and expect not to suffer afflictions. They come in many ways and through many circumstances.

The worst part is that no one can prevent some of them, because they are set in motion by forces entirely beyond our control. The question is how to face them, survive them, and somehow draw something positive from them for our lives.

We have to learn to hold on to hope when we are in the midst of difficult and frustrating circumstances. Bad times pass. Usually, almost everything in life is temporary, and we will not always be in the same condition. Whether we are ill, facing financial difficulties, or dealing with family problems, it is good to hold on to the hope that one day our present circumstances will somehow disappear or improve. It is good to have that spirit, because in this way we help ourselves and develop the strength that allows us to face problems with wisdom and good sense.

The opposite is to say: I can’t take any more; it will always be the same; there is no remedy. Some people like to express views like these, but the truth is that they are not always right, and worst of all, they are paralyzing. The most harmful thing we can do in the midst of any affliction is to fold our arms and dwell on the magnitude of the problem weighing us down, wallowing in our inability to do anything without making room for hope or faith.

When you are afflicted and, quite reasonably, recognize that things will not always be the same, resolving to hope and work for better times, you release a strength that helps you get back on your feet and, incredibly, diminishes the power of whatever is afflicting you, allowing you to see other possibilities and new alternatives.

The Lord Jesus himself, shortly before he died, when his disciples sensed that very difficult times were coming for everyone, said: “In the world you will have affliction, but take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). With those words, he showed them and us what attitude to take when afflictions take our lives by storm. Let us face life’s troubles as they come, accepting them as part of life, but let us also trust in the Lord. Calm always follows the storm; dawn comes after the dark night. The apostle John also reminds us: “For everything born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world: our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world, if not the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” (1 John 5:4–5).

God bless you all!