Tribulation in life can defeat or develop an individual, depending on how one responds to it. Most people take the defeatist attitude when facing the problems of life. If one however would remember that "…all things work together for good to those who love God" (Romans 8:28), then they might see how tribulation could actually be beneficial to Christian growth. Consider how we can use tribulation to help us grow closer to God.

Tribulation can direct us. In Proverbs 20:30, the wise man stated, "Blows that hurt cleanse away evil, as do stripes the inner depths of the heart." Problems in life can often motivate us to move in a new direction. Problems can direct us to make changes in life. Through tribulation, our hearts and minds might again be directed to the things that are above (Colossians 3:1-2). Our focus can be shifted away from self and toward others (Philippians 2:1-4).

Tribulation can inspect us. It has been said that people are like tea bags; if you want to know what’s inside, just drop them in hot water. Through the trials and troubles of life, we can find out what we are made of. We are to count it joy when we face trials (James 1:2-5). We can look at the friends of Daniel (Daniel 3) and see how we should react to trouble.

Tribulation can correct us. In Psalms 119:71, the psalmist said, "It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes." Some of the most lasting lessons in life come from pain and failure. Sometimes we learn lessons of value by losing something of value.

Tribulation can protect us. A problem can be a blessing in disguise if it prevents us from being harmed by something more serious. In Genesis 50:19-20, Joseph said, "Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people." Joseph’s misfortune turned out for his good and for the good of many.

Tribulation can perfect us. Trouble, when responded to correctly, builds character. Romans 5:3-5 states that tribulation produces perseverance, character and hope. That hope never disappoints us. We are perfected or made complete by internalizing the word of God (Psalm 119:11, 2 Timothy 3:16-17). If we lean on the all-sufficient word of God, then we will be able to handle whatever troubles come our way.

How do we handle trouble? Do we have the attitude of defeat? Do we blame God or the church? Do we run from it or hide from it? If we approach tribulation with the right attitude, we can grow closer to God through it.

~ Greg Neill