I have not understood much of what I lived, at the time of it.
I heard once that, "life is understood looking backwards", and I tend to agree with it. Difficult situations, disappointments, suffering, uncertainty, are things we humans don't like to have to deal with, and if possible, we would like to find a way to not have to face them.
At the moment of experiencing these type of situations, we might wrestle with the question of why, again and again, since it is natural for us to wonder and want an explanation of why do we have to endure pain,—yet taking us to nowhere.
There is a hope inside uncertain and difficult times, it is leaning on a promise, that if we put our trust in the One who knows the unknown and cares vehemently for us, He will not only help us to get through the dark valleys, but also, use any experience—no matter how tough and disgusting— to bring forth a good, whether it is a lesson, personal and spiritual growth, or even an outer and circumstantial positive outcome.
He will do.
It is a challenge to fight to believe, to remain trusting and holding onto hope, when our surrounding tells us a bad story, and shoots at our minds with fear, overwhelming us... But it is possible, for, also by trusting we are as well given a shield of peace, to help us overcome anything trying to bring us down.
In my personal Look Back, it's incredible to see the victories gained, in times when I felt like it-is-over, and the inner strength I received at times when I thought I-can't-do-this-any-more. Looking back at the times I felt like giving up, seeing no more but darkness, confusion—a fearful future—I see that the circumstances did not drown me, but served a greater purpose, being part of the process of the making of who I am, a better version.
Also I see that the tiny trust I had—all I had to give at the moment—was well rewarded, I have not been fooled by the One who called me to put my hope on Him, but instead, blessed with gifts—in all senses—outside of my imagination, need or longing.
Trusting on God, as my help and shield at difficult times, has been the best investment for my future I could have ever done. As one poem states:
"...No one who put his trust on Him will be ashamed..."(Psalm 25:3)
This is just a short commentary to a titanic topic, yet I hope the conclusion of personal and real experiences —of years—through mountain tops, valleys and tears, encourages you on your path in an uncertain world and through uncertain times.
