Counsel #8 — Personal Disaster

Picture: Counsel #8 — Personal DisasterCSI 90.1

Life throws a lot at us, right? So how do we as Christians respond when personal disasters hit?^{[132]https://adventistreview.org/2008-1505/2008-1505-24/}CSI 90.2

Prayer: During hardship, pour your heart out to God. Express your pain, confusion, and fear. Ask for strength, guidance, and peace.

Scripture: Read about biblical figures like Job, Hosea or Paul who endured immense suffering yet remained faithful. Reflect on passages that offer comfort and hope, such as Psalms or Philippians 4:6-7.

Connection: Don't isolate yourself. Surround yourself with your church family, or trusted Christian friends.

Gratitude: Even in hardship, there's always something to be grateful for. Focusing on blessings, big or small, can shift your perspective and remind yourself of God's goodness.

Meaning: While we may not understand the reason for our struggles, God can use them to deepen our faith, develop compassion for others, or draw us closer to Him

Professional Help: If you're struggling emotionally, don't hesitate to seek therapy from a qualified counselor who understands Christian values.

Remember, God promises to be with you always (see Matthew 1:23).^{[133]Matthew 1:23}CSI 90.3

“I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.’” Psalms 91:2 NKJVCSI 90.4

“There is a God who hears prayer, and when all other resources fail, He is your refuge, a very present help in time of trouble.” Ellen White in This Day with God, p. 184CSI 90.5

Reflect: How comfortable are you expressing raw emotions like anger or confusion to God in prayer?CSI 90.6