What To Do When You Fall Into Trials [Ministry Update]
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1:2-4, NKJV).
In August, we hit one of those snags in life that can either send you reeling in a tailspin or cause you to go deeper into God to find your footing. The company that did our printing and mailing made an error on our printed newsletter. Our entire newsletter, sent to 460 families or individuals in the United States, was sent out with our old address on the mailing envelopes, as well as on the return envelopes.
So what do you do when your newsletters are sent out with the wrong address on the envelopes? Or if you are not getting enough rain on your crops? Or if you are experiencing major trauma in your business, family, or personal life?
Count it all joy!
Really? James’ exhortation can seem nonsensical during such times. And yet, it’s the best plan. Don’t let the devil get you down! You’ve got the great and mighty God on your side. It’s time to let patience have its perfect work, because it is through faith and patience that we inherit the promises of God. Patient endurance is the commodity that we desperately need to successfully navigate life.
For us, it was painful and upsetting to discover that 460 envelopes had been sent all over the US with the wrong address, and that our precious partners would be sending in prayer requests and offerings only to have them returned. But we need to let patience have its perfect work and go forward!
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; (James 1:5-7, NKJV).
When you are facing a trial, the big question is: “What should I do?” If we follow our natural inclinations or react out of our emotions, we can make things worse. It’s time to ask God for wisdom on how to proceed and to believe that He will give it to you. Remember, despite the circumstances, God is still on your side.
So, we asked the Lord for wisdom about our envelopes and He showed us how to walk through this trial and come out on top. We contacted people through text, email, US mail, and phone. We contacted the post office in Mankato to explain what happened. And we found a new company to do our printing and mailing. We did all we knew to do … and prayed!
Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. (James 1:12, NKJV).
Remember, God has a blessing for those who endure temptation. We are now seeing God turn this situation around for the good. Our partners have responded to the need, resending their offerings and giving generously. The Post Office in Mankato has agreed to forward the return envelopes that come to them in the future.
The devil’s plan is for you to lose your cool, blow your stack, kick the dog, and react in the flesh. Decide to keep your faith working, go forward, and walk in the Spirit through the trial. Then God can turn it around and bring a blessing into your life!