Going through challenging situations
Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Many people thump others over the head with this scripture when they are going through challenges in life. Whether it’s a job loss, divorce, death in family, sickness and disease, etc. Sometimes it can be comforting and sometimes it can be confusing. Most of us have been through a turning point experience in our lives and certainly at the time and going through the pain of the moment, there was nothing good about it.
I recently had a breakfast meeting with a friend of mine by the name of Scott Schilling. www.scottschilling.com. We were discussing some of our trials in life and how we ended up where we were but he explained to me a great process to walk people through so they can make more sense and meaning out of the above Bible verse in Romans 8. Here is Scott’s 5 question process to see good in every challenge that life throw’s at you:
Question #1: What lessons have I learned from this challenge?
Think about how much better life would be if we had an attitude of learning from every situation we faced, whether good or bad. Some of the most famous people in the world got to where they are by making mistakes and going through very difficult circumstances. They learned quickly, what works and what doesn’t with everything in life and then made the necessary adjustments for success and healing.
Question #2: What gifts have I gained from this challenge?
There is a “silver lining” in every challenge and circumstance of life. What are the blessings that are tangible and intangible with your challenge? Children, money, perspective, vocation, friends, education, etc.
Question #3: How did I create the challenge?
Oftentimes we like to play the role of a victim. We blame others for outcomes in our lives that happened because of our choices and decisions, not anything somebody did to us. Accepting responsibility for your actions helps the healing go much faster and helps the pain go away. Be real, be honest, and forgive yourself.
Question #4: How will I modify things for next time?
To really learn from and see the good in all things that happen in life we have to take what comes our way and make adjustments and modify our path. For example, divorce doesn’t mean that your life is over, it just means that you have a different path now, a plan B so to speak.
Question #5: How will this serve me the rest of my life?
This is where the rubber meets the road. What are the life-long applications that will now be part of your life because of this challenge, tragedy, or painful event?
Challenging circumstances can teach you a multitude of things. They can also help you grow tremendously. In order for these things to happen though, you have to be willing to forgive, move forward and gain strength from pain. I can help you do this, and move forward to better things. https://richcavaness.com/
