Being Still | Steadfast in the Trials

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” -James 1:12

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” -Romans 12:12

I recently mentioned on Instagram that we’ve been going through some trials lately. I really think of myself as someone who is positive and always sees the bright side of things, sees the positive in things, and sees the glass as always half full… but anyone who goes through tough times can begin to get worn down and tired.

And as a believer, it can be really hard to see the purpose of things. It can be hard to see God’s plan in things. And often we find ourselves asking, “Why?! Why, God, why?! Why does this happen?” 

Today I’m attending the funeral of an old friend of mine. We were on an improv team together for a few years and he was like my brother from another mother. He passed away so suddenly recently. He was my age. And I keep finding myself asking, “Why? Why him?” He was one of those guys who everyone loved – he was one of the most beloved people I’ve ever known, really. And… I still find myself asking God, why? 

And then some other things have been going on in our personal life that have been tough. But I know how blessed we are and I know how lucky we are. I’m trying to see the good in all of it.

But, I realize that it’s in those times of trial and in those times of testing that God is seeing how “tough” we really are… if that makes sense.

To be honest, I realize this is becoming rambly and totally unfocused, but this has been something that’s been on my mind lately and I’m just trying to work through it. And as we begin to feel discouraged and as we struggle to work through the tough times, I just know that if we stay steadfast, if we stay focused, and if we stay strong in Christ… we WILL get through it. We will come out stronger. We will grow and mature.

And right now, that’s all I’m trying to do. Put one foot in front of the other and work through it.