How often do you have tough times to come your way?

The Bible tells us that every person, no matter who you are, will have tough times. There is no way around it.

Sometimes tough times have come my way when I least expected. When they came, it was hard to deal with. There have been times when I have struggled to get past it. Some tough moments have taken longer to get over than others; however, I have found that tough times and disappointments will come to each of us. It doesn’t matter who you are or how close to God you think you are.

The prophet Isaiah knew as he shared a word that God’s people needed to know that disappointments and things in life would come at times and bring hurt and pain. Events show up out of nowhere that will bring low moments in our lives.

It may be something as simple as not getting a promotion you hoped for. Maybe you didn’t qualify for a house or a vehicle you really wanted, or maybe a relationship that didn’t work out, or the death of a loved one, or some kind of illness in your body.

Whatever it may be, the truth of the matter is tough times and disappointments do come.

The key to handling low moments is learning to:

• Let go of the past.
• Stay connected with the present
• Look forward to the future

During this Lent season, let go of the past so you can overcome tough times and disappointments. We need to know that we can experience the bright future God has waiting for us. As the hymn goes, there’s a bright side somewhere, and don’t you rest until you find it. Hang in there and know that the Lord has you covered through every low moment and in life. Just keep the faith and enjoy your journey.

 

The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Perry is pastor of St. Mark AME Zion Church. Contact him at josephp134@gmail.com.