I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. Your ways, O God, are holy. What god is so great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples.
Several months ago, I was sitting at a church dinner celebrating the upcoming holiday when I looked up toward the overhead screen and read these words. “I’m so grateful for friends who continue to push me to do hard things.” Hmm. I pondered that statement well into the evening and the next day. The more I thought about it, the more I heartily agreed.
Hard things can feel overwhelming
I began reflecting upon my own faithful friends who have pushed me to do hard things when I felt like doing anything but something uncomfortable, challenging, or overwhelming. Given my personal preferences as an introvert large group gatherings always leave me somewhat exhausted and worn out.
Still, as a believer, we are meant to be interactional. Yes, even us introverts to whom it doesn’t come naturally. Given this spiritual principle that we are called by Jesus to, “Go and make disciples,” which means constant contact with others, it can feel like a “hard thing.”
When we step out in faith God meets us there
But here is what I’ve been discovering. The more I discipline myself to push through my hesitations to love and serve others, the more God strengthens and enlarges my faith. What can seem (and feel) so daunting often unfolds into a blessing for me. I rediscover the faithfulness and constancy of God’s care for me. He loves me. He cares about me. He knows me better than anyone. So, as my Savior and Lord, he asks of me hard things so that I will better understand the depth of his love for me.
God is present in our suffering
All said, doing hard things is expected of all of us. Some days (some seasons) it’s just a lot harder than others. Like right now when we have moved from a lifelong church, lost a nephew, and have been battling numerous health issues. This is a hard season. Which is why I found great insight and comfort in author Linda Dillow’s book, Calm My Anxious Heart. Below is an excerpt written by Andrew Murray that Dillow shares to encourage us all who are in the difficult season of life and still need to trust God to do hard things he expects of us.
In time of trouble, say, “First, he brought me here. It is by his will I am in this strait place; in that I will rest.” Next, “He will keep me here in his love, and give me grace in this trial to behave as his child.” Then say, “He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me lessons he intends me to learn, and working in me the grace he means to bestow.” And last, say, “In his good time he can being me out again. How and when, he knows.” Therefore, say, “I am here (1) by God’s appointment, (2) in his keeping, (3) under his training, (4) for his time.”