Coping with Painful Circumstances

Proverbs 16:24 (NLT)
“Kind words are like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”

Recently, I spoke with a woman who has been grappling with feelings of betrayal for nearly two years now. You’d think with time, healing would start to take hold, but it’s not always that simple – especially when children are involved, and faith hasn’t been a guiding force in the journey to healing. She’s reached out to countless people, hoping for encouragement and comfort for her shattered heart. Some of the advice she’s received has steered her towards anger and resentment. So, instead of finding comfort, she’s found bitterness creeping into her soul. She confided that she fears she’ll never be capable of loving again.

Dealing with tough times is something we all face but coping with the pain of a partner’s infidelity can be especially tough. It’s like a heavy weight you carry around, making even the simplest tasks feel impossible. I’ve seen it firsthand, women reeling from the shock of betrayal, desperately trying to lessen the pain any way they can. It’s a natural instinct, isn’t it? When you’re hurt, you want to shield yourself from more pain, just like you’d protect a physical wound.

Turning to those who do not know the Lord and haven’t given their lives to Him can sometimes worsen rather than alleviate pain. That’s why passages like Proverbs 16:24 resonate so deeply, highlighting the restorative effect of kind words on the soul and body. Our Master Jesus said in John 14:27(NLT): “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” The Words of Christ bring us a peace that passes all understanding. They instruct, edify, and heal us.

It’s our outlook and approach to challenges that truly shape our experiences as believers. We desperately need to hear the truth, especially when we’ve been attacked by the enemy, who tries to weaponize our relationships against us. Ephesians 6:12 (NLT) is a powerful reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face: “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” This is a reality check for us, reminding us that life isn’t all about what our physical eyes see. There’s a spiritual battle going on behind the scenes, and it’s no joke!

Ephesians 6:13,18(NLT) states: “13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” Rather than succumbing to despair or resentment, this passage prompts us to equip ourselves with God’s spiritual armor of prayer, faith, and the truth of His Word to combat the schemes of the enemy. We can rely on the strength and protection that comes from our faith and stand strong continually.

Realizing that our battles extend beyond human conflicts, but are against spiritual powers, enables us to face difficulties with wisdom and discernment. God doesn’t want us to shut down emotionally due to hurt or betrayal. Instead of harboring bitterness and anger towards people, we’re encouraged to employ fail-proof weapons like prayer, faith, and truth. Whether it’s betrayal in marriage or any other relationship, relying on these tools helps us navigate with the authority and power of Christ, avoiding emotional paralysis and fostering forgiveness and growth.

Trust in God is pivotal to overcoming brokenness. Psalm 51:10 (NLT) beautifully invites God’s restorative work within us: “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Our loving Heavenly Father desires the best for us, far beyond our own comprehension. So, stay steadfast in faith, facing challenges with courage, because nothing can hinder the reality that your inner strength of faith will always manifest the victory of Christ. Despite pain or adversity caused by others, God’s presence and power surpass all, guiding us to overcome with a renewed spirit. Take heart and trust in His unwavering strength. knowing that victory is within reach. ■

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

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