HOW TO SURVIVE PAINFUL SEASONS.

Pain blurs vision. Whether it’s your vision for life, marriage, family, or the pursuit of your purpose – no matter which part of your heart the pain is touching, stormy seasons have a way of causing us to view life through the lens of “this is never gonna get better” and “nothing’s ever going to change.” But it’s not true – life will get good again.

In Psalm 6 David wrote:

“My vision is blurred by grief; my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies.”

Psalm 6:7 NLT

It’s hard to see clearly when the lights are unexpectedly turned off and you have to walk through the darkness. Suddenly you’re forced to feel your way through it and that’s dangerous. Why? Becuase feelings can be deceiving. Just because our feelings are real doesn’t always mean they’re right. Pain has a way of blurring our vision.

“The worst thing you can do when you’re going through a painful season is to make a permanent decision in the middle of a temporary situation.”

When your vision is blurred your perspective is off, so before you give in to the temptation to quit on something big, something that could effect your destiny – do these three things:

1 – Remind yourself that your vision is blurred.

This is the time to process your pain, not make big descisions. Talk to a counselor and people you love and trust. Grieve if nessisary, but don’t let what feels like the worst of your life determine what you’re going to do with the rest of your life. This too shall pass.

Don’t let what feels like the worst of your life determine what you’re going to do with the rest of your life.

2 – When you can’t see clearly, surround yourself with people who can.

Surround yourself with people who’s vision hasn’t been blurred by pain and who you can trust to speak with a clearer perspective into your situation. That can be a family member, mentor, coach, or pastor. They’ll have a more accurate perception of how things really are.

3 – Lean into Jesus.

(1) Spend time in prayer. Your prayer doesn’t have to be fancy, just real. (2) Open your bible and read through His promises. They’re so life giving! The Psalms are a great place to start when you’re walking through a low place. I’ve listed a few here that are particularly encouraging: Psalm 16, Psalm 34, and Psalm 91.

Remember- the night seasons of life aren’t the times to make life altering decisions. Sorrow may last for the night, but joy WILL come in the morning!

Your morning is coming.

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