It began as a simple phone call.
The moment she answered, my friend sensed something was wrong. And without asking for details about my situation, she offered to pray for me. Somehow she understood. She prayed for God to bring comfort and thanked Him for providing whatever I needed to walk through the trial. What she prayed for next, I will never forget.
“Father, thank you that when Kristine comes through this, you will allow her to encourage someone else going through the same struggle.”
What? Encourage someone else in their struggle? In the middle of my mess, the idea seemed impossible.
What does God say about struggles?
Is it God's plan for us to suffer? Am I the only one hurting like this? When we face life’s toughest battles, it’s easy to feel alone - like no one understands. That lie can keep us from experiencing the good work God has planned for us through the struggle. That’s why it is so important to not only thank Him for His goodness but also share about all He has done.
When circumstances seem at their absolute worst, encouraging someone else is far from my mind. If I’m searching for strength to get through my day, how can I possibly offer help to another person?
What does God say about his plans for us?
It’s in those uncertain times that we find hope in God’s promise in Romans 8:28. He works all things together for good for those who love Him. All things, even the yucky stuff. Even in the struggle. And although I might not feel like it at that moment. There will be a day when God will open the door for me to share my victory and encourage a friend with His faithfulness.
“Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of his works with songs of joy.” Psalm 107:22
I hesitated before calling my friend that day because I thought I had to face my challenge alone. Her response changed that. We praised. We thanked Him. She told me how God had provided for her, broken chains, healed sickness, and brought peace to her storms. What an encouragement!
Are you needing God’s provision today? Do you need to know there is a plan beyond the struggle? That simple phone call with my friend taught me a valuable truth.
When you find yourself asking “What is God's Plan for My Struggle?” remember not to struggle alone. Yesterday’s victory for someone else can bring hope to your struggle today. And one day, you will be able to offer the same encouragement to another.
