THOUGHTFUL THINGS

Finding Joy in the Midst of Struggles

Life is filled with seasons of both sunshine and storm. Every believer will walk through moments of trial, uncertainty, or pain, yet God’s Word reminds us that even in the hardest times, we can still find joy. This joy is not the same as happiness, which depends on circumstances—it’s a deep, abiding gladness rooted in our relationship with Christ.

James 1: 2-3 ( KJV) says, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” These verses teach us that our trials are not wasted. When we face hardships, God is developing something within us— strength, endurance, and deeper faith. Our struggles become the very ground where His grace grows strongest. Paul, who endured imprisonment, persecution, and suffering, wrote in Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” Notice that Paul didn’t say to rejoice for the trials, but to rejoice in them. Joy in the midst of hardship is not denial of pain—it’s the declaration that God is greater than our pain. It’s saying, “I may not understand this, but I trust the One who holds my life in His hands.”

When we shift our focus from the problem to the Provider, from the storm to the Savior, our perspective changes. Psalm 30:5 reminds us, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Even in the darkest seasons, we hold to the promise that morning is coming. The night will not last forever, and the light of God’s joy will break through the clouds of sorrow.

Jesus Himself said in John 16:33, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” That’s our confidence—Christ has already overcome! Because of Him, we can face every trial with courage, knowing that victory is on the horizon. Finding joy in struggle doesn’t mean we ignore our pain—it means we invite God into it. We worship through the tears. We praise in the middle of the problem. We trust that even when life feels broken, God is still working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). True joy is found not in the absence of troubles, but i n the presence of Jesus. When we keep our eyes fixed on Him, even the hardest battles can become testimonies of His faithfulness. So today, no matter what you’re facing, lift your head, lift your heart, and remember—the joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Hold on to faith!

We invite you to visit us at The Family Church, 9456 Hwy 146 N, Hardin, TX. You can also watch our services live via Facebook at @tfchardin.