Staying positive: How to see the good in difficult moments

Life is full of tough moments, right? We all face challenges that can make things seem a bit too heavy. But, as a Christian, you know there is a power in staying positive, something that goes beyond just looking on the bright side. 

This article is here to help you out during those hard times. This is not by pretending they do not exist. But by giving you some practical guidance rooted in your Christian beliefs.

Understanding difficult moments

When it comes to understanding tough times from a Christian standpoint, your faith plays a crucial role. It is like having a reliable guide amid challenges. It offers a perspective that goes beyond the surface of your struggles.

Recognizing that facing challenges is a shared experience. It is a shared experience we all go through. Your Christian perspective does not promise a life without challenges but offers a way to face them with a sense of purpose and hope.

Trusting in God's plan and sovereignty means relying on the belief that there is a bigger picture, even when things seem unclear or difficult to understand. It is recognizing that, as a Christian, your trust is not in your strength alone but in a higher power guiding the course of your life. This trust becomes a source of comfort and assurance, especially when faced with the uncertainties that life throws your way.

Job

 In the Bible, you have probably come across the story of Job, a man who faced unimaginable challenges. His experiences showcase the role of faith in navigating difficulties. Despite losing his wealth, health, and family, Job remained steadfast in his trust in God.

Jesus Christ

Delving further into the biblical narrative, the Garden of Gethsemane provides a poignant portrayal of Christ's experience with challenges. On the eve of his crucifixion, Jesus faced immense emotional and spiritual anguish in the garden. He grappled with the weight of his impending suffering. Yet in his prayers, he yielded to God's will, saying, "Not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42). This moment reveals a profound acceptance of difficulties as an inherent part of life's journey.

Staying positive

Maintaining a positive outlook is an essential aspect of navigating life's ups and downs with resilience and grace. That said, as a Christian, you can consider following these tips to stay positive and maintain your faith.

Acknowledge your difficulties

Life is a series of experiences, and not all of them are easy or smooth. It is normal to encounter challenges along the way – setbacks, disappointments, and uncertainties. Understanding that difficulties are a natural part of the journey allows you to approach them with a sense of realism.

Rather than seeing challenges as obstacles to happiness, recognize them as integral parts of life. This, in turn, opens the door to growth and resilience. Every difficulty you face becomes an opportunity for learning, adaptation, and personal development. 

Turn to prayer and the Scriptures for peace

When it comes to staying positive in the face of challenges, turning to prayer and the Scriptures can be a powerful source of peace. Consider the example of Christ in the garden of Gethsemane. In that moment of profound struggle, he turned to prayer, seeking solace and strength from a higher power. Similarly, when you find yourself in difficult times, engage in prayer. This can be a way to connect with God, share your burdens, and seek guidance.

Besides praying, delving into the Scriptures offers a firm basis for maintaining a positive mindset. Delve into verses such as Philippians 4:6-7, which encourages turning anxieties into prayers, or Psalm 23, emphasizing God's constant presence and guidance. These can serve as anchors in challenging moments. 

Discover the underlying joys

Even amid challenges, there are often small moments of happiness and gratitude that can make a significant difference. However, sometimes, discovering underlying joys involves a shift in focus. Instead of solely dwelling on the challenges, purposely seek out the positive aspects of your life. 

Moreover, these joys may be found in simple things like a warm cup of coffee, a kind gesture from a friend, or the beauty of nature. Pause to acknowledge and value these little joys. They can act as guiding lights, offsetting the heaviness of challenging situations.

Immerse in songs of praises

Music has this special ability to affect how you feel and think. Choose melodies that lift your spirits, bring to mind the goodness of God, and allow you to express gratitude. Whether you sing along or just listen, these songs can bring comfort and encouragement your way.

Also, whether it is hymns, contemporary Christian songs, or any music that resonates with your beliefs, the act of immersing yourself in songs of praise can be a form of worship that lifts your spirits. Consider incorporating this into your daily routine. In turn, you allow the melodies of praise to be a constant presence in your life. 

Remember God’s promises

When it comes to staying positive, a powerful anchor is remembering God's promises. These assurances, rooted in your Christian faith, serve as beacons of hope even in challenging times. A promise in Romans 8:28 exemplifies this assurance. It guarantees that in every situation, God is working for the benefit of those who love Him.

Another promise to hold onto is found in Isaiah 41:10. Here, God encourages you not to fear, for He is with you. This promise emphasizes the constant presence of God in your life. He offers strength and support when facing adversity. And knowing that you are not alone in your struggles can be a source of comfort and assurance.

Additionally, the promise of Philippians 4:13 declares that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. This assurance empowers you to face challenges with confidence, relying on the strength derived from your faith. 

Recalling these promises isn't just a mental exercise. It's a practical way to anchor yourself in God's unwavering assurances, cultivating a positive outlook even when times are tough.

Look forward

Sometimes, the enormity of challenges can be overwhelming. However, breaking them down into smaller, manageable goals can make them more approachable. These could be as simple as completing a daily task, setting aside time for a hobby, or planning a small gathering with loved ones.

Anticipating and celebrating small occasions can also contribute to a positive mindset. Whether it is a family dinner, a weekend outing, or a personal achievement, having these small events on the horizon provides a sense of purpose and excitement. It shifts your focus from the difficulties of the present to the possibilities of the future.

Perseverance in difficult moments

Staying positive in difficult times is not about turning a blind eye to the challenges you face. It is a conscious decision to adopt a different mindset that enables you to persevere through adversity. 

Opting for a positive mindset involves recognizing the challenges but refusing to allow them to shape your perspective on life. It involves looking for the silver lining, and recognizing the opportunities for growth and learning embedded in every challenge. 

In essence, staying positive is a resilient response to life's challenges that empowers you to navigate the journey with hope, determination, and steadfast faith in God's plan.

More from Crossmap:

Giving up: Signs you should surrender to God’s plan