Trial is a difficult concept, because what does it actually mean?
That I have to go through unpleasant things to become ‘stronger’ in my faith? That it is meaningful to go through unpleasant things because otherwise I will not grow in my faith life? Is it necessary for us, as human beings, to be tested so that we know for sure that we truly believe in God?
Is it God Himself who puts me to the test?
So many questions…
The moment I experience great sorrow, am deeply hurt, lose someone, or have great worries myself, the Lord Jesus is the first one to whom I turn for support by praying myself, asking others for prayer, reading the Bible, and continuing to trust that God is with me. But at the same time, the trial in my life often raises the question: Why? Why do I have to go through this?
I find the story of Job very moving because he experiences so much suffering that I wonder: How do you survive this as a human being?
At the same time, people today also experience unpleasant things. On a large scale (pandemic, war, persecution, human trafficking, etc.) and on a smaller scale (death, illness, disability, unemployment, poverty, abuse, discrimination, etc.), and some of those people come together in church. When I look around me on Sunday morning at the people in the pews, I wonder how many of my brothers and sisters are having a hard time, are afraid, angry, confused, tired, sick… and is anyone looking at me with the same question?
How open are we still about our trials?
Do we help each other to remain steadfast?
I myself have also had to endure trials, which placed great pressure on my personal relationship with the Lord God for a long time.
Where are You, Lord?
I learned important lessons about myself, the world, and who my Father actually is. Having to endure these trials was and is a daily part of my discipleship training. I can therefore assume that I am far from finished learning to live.
It is important to also have an eye for the people who need support in this learning process.
There are people without a social network, and there are people who struggle to make themselves understood. Some find it difficult to be candid while others find it difficult to be vulnerable. Supporting one another during trials is not only the task of the pastoral ministry, but can also be seen as a kind of duty of care for brothers and sisters within the congregation. I do not view this as giving help, but as offering comfort.
And perhaps you are the one who is unable to make it clear to the other that you need support and that you would like to be comforted. Then you may realize that the Lord Jesus is there for you and offers you comfort Himself.
Workbook
What are your thoughts on ‘trial’?
Can you make it clear to others that you need comfort?
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