Ask yourself these seven questions when you face problems, trials, or other kinds of suffering.
- What is being exposed about my trust in God through this trial?
Am I panicky? Frustrated? Angry? Fearful? Do I pray or worry? Complain or give thanks?
- What demands, rights, or expectations are being humbled by this trial?
Health? Attention from others? Independence? Frustration and anger usually show something I expect or demand has been denied.
- What priorities or desires is God re-ordering through this trial?
Love of efficiency? Love of routine? Love of success? Desire for ease? Desire for control? Desire for predictability? Etc..
- What might God be loosening my grip on?
What am I still grasping for, even though I can’t get it?
- What has this trial forced me to do that I usually tend to neglect?
Pray more? Listen to God’s Word? Receive service from others? Cultivate love for God and others? Etc..
- What sinful responses come out of me during this trial?
Murmuring? Impatience? Self-pity? Blame? Anger? Unbelief?…etc
- What godly characteristics are needed for this trial but are lacking in me?
Endurance? Gratitude? Patience? Humility?
Bob VanWingerden
How is love for efficiency, predictability, success something that needs correction. Shouldn’t we do all things to the best of our ability which would then expect those things.
David
It’s not often a question of what we love. It’s a question of how much; and how much relative to our love for God and neighbour. Efficiency, predictability, success can become idols, like any other love.
Sylvester Ndlovu
Thanks brother David for the message. I’m in a same trial for over 20 years now and I’m really tired most of my time, nothing is working for me. I feel it’s taking too long and most of my time I’m discouraged. At one moment I trust but most of the time I’m miserable. How can I be encouraged and remain faithful to the Lord.
David
Sounds very disheartening, Sylvester. First step would be to find a good local church with sound leadership. It sounds like you need to spend some considerable time with good, biblical counsellors, thinking through your problem, and finding biblical solutions.
Copley Sutton
Thank you for this, David, it it has really helped me. Much love from Antioch BC.