Remain Calm In Times Of Adversity

“Say to him, ‘Be careful, keep calm and don’t be afraid….” – Isaiah 7:4 (NIV) 

Soccer star Landon Donovan said, “Life isn’t perfect, of course, but we all know it’s how you react to things that count.” Life is not perfect, in fact it is often messy, chaotic, and confusing. There are big, medium and small storms that come our way. It is in stormy conditions that we become confused and plagued with doubt and fear. 

As Christians, we have the comfort of knowing that there is a calm amidst our storms. We have God and when you have God you can have calm and peace. The key is not to put your focus on your situation, but rather on God. Learn to trust God enough to take a stand when on the mountaintop or in the valley. The Bible tells us in Psalms 46:1. “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” The Bible has a lot to say on the subject of trusting God for the results.

“The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” – Psalm 121:7-8

“But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:3

“…my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me from violence. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.” – 2 Samuel 22:3-4.

“…Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

So stay calm, and trust God. When hardships come your way, you can do one of two things: you can either choose to harden your heart or you can choose to find purpose in your challenges. Although it may be hard to see at times, there is always some good in each storm. In life’s storms, choose to thank God for the good things in your life and ask Him to help you endure whatever you are facing now. 

When life gets hard, remember this special passage from Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

Discussion Questions:

1. God is bigger than anything we will ever face in our lives. What challenge or obstacle are you currently facing that you need God’s strength to help you endure through it? 
2. In what ways do you experience God’s presence on a daily basis?