Counsels on Social Issue
Counsel #8 — Personal Disaster
Picture: Counsel #8 — Personal Disaster CSI 90.1
Life throws a lot at us, right? So how do we as Christians respond when personal disasters hit?[132] CSI 90.2
- Prayer: During hardship, pour your heart out to God. Express your pain, confusion, and fear. Ask for strength, guidance, and peace.
- Scripture: Read about biblical figures like Job, Hosea or Paul who endured immense suffering yet remained faithful. Reflect on passages that offer comfort and hope, such as Psalms or Philippians 4:6-7.
- Connection: Don't isolate yourself. Surround yourself with your church family, or trusted Christian friends.
- Gratitude: Even in hardship, there's always something to be grateful for. Focusing on blessings, big or small, can shift your perspective and remind yourself of God's goodness.
- Meaning: While we may not understand the reason for our struggles, God can use them to deepen our faith, develop compassion for others, or draw us closer to Him
- Professional Help: If you're struggling emotionally, don't hesitate to seek therapy from a qualified counselor who understands Christian values.
Remember, God promises to be with you always (see Matthew 1:23).[133] CSI 90.3
“I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.’” Psalms 91:2 NKJV CSI 90.4
“There is a God who hears prayer, and when all other resources fail, He is your refuge, a very present help in time of trouble.” Ellen White in This Day with God, p. 184 CSI 90.5
Reflect: How comfortable are you expressing raw emotions like anger or confusion to God in prayer? CSI 90.6