Faith is probably the single greatest tool in my tool chest to combat the challenges we face in our lives. The power of faith never ceases to amaze me, yet it is such a difficult muscle to exercise in the face of challenge and adversity.

My dearest friend just had a huge tumor removed from his kidney, and as he shared his experience it was so evident how much faith he had in the man upstairs. He was able to accept the outcome and know that everything was going to be okay, because he was guided by something bigger than himself, and he knew that his job on earth wasn’t finished yet.

I have been told by doctors that one’s attitude does affect recovery rates. If I believe I will overcome– if I have faith, then I am more likely to have a successful outcome.

The question is: How do we exercise faith when the outcome is seemingly negative? How do you keep a smile on your face when the news is bad, when the tumor has grown, when the outcome is painful?

I find that these are the times when faith is most important. That is when we must dig deepest into our souls and believe that somehow, some way, we are not seeing the entire picture, and ultimately it will be beneficial for us. What I do find, is that when others tell me it will be okay, or others tell me to have faith, personally I get angry, and I say to myself– and sometimes to them– “Who are you to tell me it will be okay? Are you trying to make yourself feel better? And furthermore, who are you to tell me to have faith– do you have any idea what I’m going through?”

I find that for me, it is most helpful when my friends tell me that they are there for me, that they are walking with me and holding my hand, and that they are offering me a shoulder to cry on.

What is most helpful for you when you are going through a painful experience? And, do you have any tips on how you muster up the faith to believe it will all be okay?

This week, just be present for your friends and family. Don’t offer advice unless asked, because at the end of the day, your presence and support is what truly matters.

Accountability, Community, Unconditional Love

Asher

Posted in Thought of the Week