How can I stop being so distraught?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I’m distraught at every turn in life. I believe in God and have even served on the pastoral staff, but I’ve had to step away because I can’t overcome my own total inability to deal with the twists and turns that seem to pile on more heaviness and despair. – I.D.
A: Paul tells us of the troubles, hardships, beatings, sleeplessness, and other sufferings which the servants of God were called upon to endure. As he thought about his responsibilities as a Christian missionary, he said, “I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches” (2 Corinthians 11:28, NIV).
How vividly Paul’s concern for the churches brings out the great pressure upon Christian service. Responsibilities of ministry can often be overwhelming. Humanly speaking, it can lead to loneliness, depression, and often discouragement. But in the midst is God’s illimitable grace – peace that passes all understanding.
Life has seasons of joy and sorrow. Pressures at times can cause mental, physical, and spiritual weakness. But when God calls someone to service, He’s there to guide and direct. We must ask ourselves if we’re reading His Word, listening for His voice, and following His guidance. We are called to faithfulness, and God provides the strength at every turn.
We may never be called upon to suffer as Paul did. Nevertheless, how triumphant we can be with an attitude like his: “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:8–9, NIV).
God has never sent any difficulty into the life of His children without His accompanying offers of help in this life and reward in the life to come.
Whatever affliction comes in life, our Lord goes into the valley with us, leading us by the hand, even carrying us when it is necessary.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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