Humility in Distress
“What shall I say? He has both spoken to me, and He Himself has done it. I shall walk carefully all my years in the bitterness of my soul. O Lord, by these things men live, and in all these things is the life of my spirit; so You will restore me and make me live. Indeed it was for my own peace that I had great bitterness; but You have lovingly delivered my soul from the pit of corruption, for You have cast all my sins behind Your back.”Isaiah 38:15-17 (NKJV)
Distress is an inevitable human experience, but it can also be a tool God uses to shape us. Often, in the darkest moments of our lives, we uncover profound truths about our relationship with God, our character, and our priorities.
When everything seems to be going well, there is a risk of forgetting our dependence on God and losing humility. However, difficulties have the potential to transform us in meaningful ways.
Lessons from Distress:
- It leads us to seek God with greater intensity.
In times of distress, our prayers become more sincere, our cries more profound, and our need for God more evident. Difficulties remind us that without Him, we cannot move forward. - It cultivates humility in our hearts.
Trials teach us to recognize our limitations and weaknesses. Arrogance fades away, and we learn to depend on God’s grace and mercy in every area of our lives. - It makes us more sensitive to the needs of others.
When we experience pain, we develop empathy for those who also suffer. This compels us to be more patient, loving, and generous, reflecting the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our actions. - It helps us value God’s discipline.
As Isaiah mentions, divine discipline is not punishment but a tool to guide us toward spiritual health and restoration. Distress can be the means through which God rescues and transforms us. - It strengthens our Christian character.
Through trials, God polishes our imperfections and leads us to develop qualities such as kindness, patience, and generosity. It reminds us that the fruit of the Spirit does not arise from comfort but from challenges.
Isaiah 38:15-17 (NKJV) “What shall I say? He has both spoken to me, and He Himself has done it. I shall walk carefully all my years in the bitterness of my soul. O Lord, by these things men live, and in all these things is the life of my spirit; so You will restore me and make me live. Indeed it was for my own peace that I had great bitterness; but You have lovingly delivered my soul from the pit of corruption, for You have cast all my sins behind Your back.”
Think About It:
- How have recent trials strengthened your relationship with God?
- How can you practice humility and generosity without the need for distress?
- Think of someone going through difficulties. How can you reflect the love and patience of Christ in their life.
