“If you're going through hell, keep going.” - Winston Churchill
Finding perspective in a difficult season can be a great challenge. Sometimes those struggles and challenges can take us to the brink of our capacity. When we come to the end of our resolve, ability, or strength it is common to look for the way out. Before you pray “Get me out” change your prayer to “Get me through.” Despite the challenge there is something greater on the other side. A breakthrough always requires a buildup.
In this example Jesus adjusts His perspective and is strengthened by God to make it through His darkest hour.
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly…”
God does not take the cup from Jesus, and He does not remove the hard road that Jesus has to walk to save humanity. Instead, what God does is He send an angel from heaven to strengthen Him.
There are some things that are only reached on the other side of our struggles. Times of pressure and discomfort can be some of the most formative seasons of our lives. It can be tempting to ask God for a miracle or to get me out of this, but in his goodness, he strengthens us in the midst of it, knowing that something valuable is being produced in us.
It is difficult to see that there is purpose in the pain. Many times, God used the challenge we went through to help other people. I have also seen God use other people to strengthen me with their own story of triumph. God may very well use this trial you are walking through to help thousands of people.
Case Study: Struggle and Transformation
The story of a caterpillar turning into a butterfly through metamorphosis is well known. It is taught in school and can be found in children’s books alike. It is a miraculous process and fascinating to study. The little caterpillar grows by feeding itself until the time is right. At the opportune time it forms a chrysalis (or cocoon for moths.). This is a tight dark space that will be the atmosphere for its’ transformation.
The final exit from this chrysalis is the most grueling part of the transformation. It must escape from this old way of life if it is ever going to fly. The struggle to escape is so intense that at times it may appear the butterfly is near death. It is a critical time in its formation and to rescue the butterfly at this time would stunt its growth and take away its ability to fly. Something takes place in the struggle that is vital for the next season of its life. As the butterfly pushes itself out, liquid from its body is pushed into its wings creating structure and strength – giving it a new ability – the freedom of flight. Without the pressure, the wings will not be fully formed, and the butterfly will be destined to walk for the rest of its life.
Let this process be a key to the next breakthrough in your life. It can sound cliché but no pain no gain. We need a test to have a testimony. I believe that if you ask God to help you during your setback – He is faithful to strengthen you to make it through.
"Be like those who stay the course with committed faith and then get everything promised to them."
