Life takes a sharp left turn into a brick wall, and suddenly, our faith and our theology are put to the ultimate test. When the pressure is on, how do we actually respond? Most of us default to one of five common, but ultimately unbiblical strategies. Here is how to spot them and how to pivot back toward a faith that won’t buckle.
This is the classic grin and bear it approach. We tell ourselves we just need to “tough it out.” But here’s the problem: that’s actually a form of pride. When we resolve to move forward under our own power, we act as if God doesn’t exist, it’s practical atheism. Ever since the Garden of Eden, we’ve been tempted to believe we’re better off as our own gods, independent and self-reliant.
We need to pivot, but how? Pray 1 Peter 5:7, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you.” Humble yourself and admit you don’t have it together. This isn’t weakness, it’s honesty.
2. FINDING SOLACE IN IDOLS
When the pain gets uncomfortable, we reach for the device, the bottle, the credit card, a vacation, etc. We look for a false counterfeit god to offer a moment of relief, perhaps even a jolt of happiness and pleasure. Escapes, however, are full of empty promises. False promises eventually sober up to a reality that hasn’t changed. Don’t get me wrong, recreation is a gift from God. Enjoying His creation is right and good. But here’s the test: how do you feel when the distraction is over? A healthy diversion (like a vacation) should refresh you to seek God’s purposes. An escape leaves you grumbling and resentful, filled with guilt and shame. Where do you find solace?
This response is rooted in the "Why me?" problem. We feel God has betrayed a deal we thought we had with Him: I follow you, and you give me a comfortable life. The problem with this mindset is that it assumes our comfort is God’s primary goal. In reality, God’s plans are often much larger and more disruptive than our own. We need a change of perspective. Don’t be surprised by the fiery trial (1 Pet 4:12). Suffering isn't a sign that you've been bad; it’s often a sign that you are participating in the life of Christ (John 16:33).
Sometimes we assume the trial is simply beyond God’s control. This often manifests itself in an unintentional but practical “Open Theism.” This is the false idea that God doesn’t know the future and is just reacting to things as they happen. Not only is this unbiblical, but a god who is “doing His best” but can’t see the end from the beginning is no comfort at all when we’re suffering. The good news is that Scripture is clear on this issue. God declares the end from the beginning (Isa 46:10), which means He knows all things; He has control over all things. From a human perspective, things look chaotic. From the heavenly perspective (Psa 73), we see that His counsel stands and His purposes are accomplished (Eph 1:11).
This is the fear that every bad thing is a specific hit from God for a past sin. We start to wonder: Is God really for me? The problem with this thinking is that it confuses God’s wrathful punishment of sin with his fatherly discipline. For the Christian, here is where Romans 8 speaks so powerfully. Paul tells us there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. If you are suffering, it isn’t a judge handing down a sentence; it’s a Father refining a son or daughter into the image of their older brother, Jesus.
If you find yourself stuck in one of these ruts, here is a quick Reality Check Table to help you re-center:
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If you feel... |
Remind yourself... |
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Self-Reliant |
God is the mighty Savior; I am the one in need. |
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Escapist |
This world is passing away; true refuge is in Him. |
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Entitled |
God’s goals for my holiness are better than my goals for my comfort. |
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Fearful |
God is sovereign; nothing is outside His reach. |
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Condemned |
This is loving discipline for my growth, not punishment for my sin. |
We don’t always get to know why a specific trial happens, but we do know Who is with us in it. Instead of gritting your teeth or running for the hills, pray for the faith to see God’s goodness, not as a distant concept, but as a satisfying reality.
Reflection Question: Which of these five defaults do you find yourself leaning toward when life gets difficult?