To say that we are living in difficult and trying times of tribulation is an understatement.  With civil unrest and violence, a nasty political campaign and the presidential election, disruption of the educational and business systems and with the pandemic tribulations of COVID 19, we live in tough times.  However, tough times are not new even though the ones of today seem to be unprecedented as we experience them.  I hear many people saying that they have COVID fatigue and are discouraged with all they see happening.  God is not surprised and knows what is happening.  We must have the peace to know that He is in control and has already overcome the world.  We must trust Him and personally lead both in good times and in difficult times.  We must answer the question of what are we made of and whom do we trust?  We are told in the middle verse of the Bible in Psalm 118:8 “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.”

Difficult times reveal our true character and faith.  When two people face the same tribulation, one may grow closer to God and become more mature in their Christian walk.  Another becomes anxious, stressed and even doubts God’s faithfulness.  Our attitudes, trust and actions of response make all the difference to us and those we lead.  We can view difficulties as either stumbling blocks or stepping stones.  Being a Christian doesn’t change the fact that we all face tribulations just like Jesus stated in our Scripture this week.  Challenges can grow our faith, define our priorities and mature our walk with Christ.  We are told to “take heart that Jesus has overcome the world.”  The confirmation of real leadership comes during difficult times and we are now living in them.  We need to live out Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.”  The bottom line is this, “Let God lead you during difficult times.”  You cannot think of anyone better.