Finding Joy in the Midst of Trials
Life is filled with trials of various kinds, and my journey is no different. Through these challenging times, the Lord has been teaching me invaluable lessons about joy, hope, and His unwavering presence. I’ve learned that joy isn’t merely the absence of sorrow; rather, it’s a peace that can exist alongside our struggles. It’s about allowing the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts, even when we feel burdened.
One of the scriptures I turn to almost daily is Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This verse serves as a constant reminder that even in the midst of trials, there is joy and hope to be found in trusting God.
About 11 years ago, my husband was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, which has since progressed. That day in the doctor’s office marked a drastic change in our lives. I vividly remember asking about the next steps, desperately seeking answers—what’s the cure, how quickly can we restore his balance, and alleviate the numbness he was feeling? Unfortunately, the doctors had no definitive answers, and the uncertainty weighed heavily on my heart.
In the years leading up to Matt’s diagnosis, he had been navigating a very dark time, battling depression. I had never walked alongside someone experiencing such deep despair. It was a period of sleepless nights spent praying with him, pacing the floors, crying, and speaking truth over the lies of the enemy. Thankfully, through prayer, support, and faith, Matt experienced healing from depression. Witnessing his transformation was a testament to God’s grace and power in our lives.
During these trials, I found comfort in knowing that our lives are held securely in God’s loving hands. I learned to trust in His goodness and sovereignty, even when the path ahead was unclear. I would often pray, “Lord, I ask for Matt’s complete healing from the top of his head to the soles of his feet. I acknowledge Your sovereignty in this situation and trust that You have a purpose for our lives. Help us to feel Your presence and guidance in every moment. Above all else, I place my trust in You!”
In Scripture, we are reminded that He will not leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He is aware of everything happening in our lives—what has happened and what will come—according to His wisdom, love, and plan.
One verse that has been particularly significant in my life is Isaiah 43:19: “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” As we navigated the hardest days, which turned into years, I clung to this scripture. It became a beacon of hope for me, reminding me that better days were ahead. Today God continually reminds me of Romans 15:13, urging me to focus on the truth that "The God of hope fills you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
In those tough times, holding on to just a few key scriptures was essential for me to stand firm. And indeed, He made a way! I am grateful for God’s goodness and the joy that comes from Him. Whenever I feel down, God faithfully reminds me of this profound truth. I am also deeply thankful for the loving support of friends and family who stand by my side through life’s challenges, lifting us up in prayer, visiting us, and providing practical help when we need it most.
Scripture can carry us through anything we face! Embracing these truths in our hearts helps us navigate even the most difficult circumstances. Let us hold on to hope and joy, knowing that God is always with us, making a way in our wilderness.
As we continue on this journey, may we be filled with His peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).
Tammy Payne
