When we experience setbacks, our most common response is our worst response: We want to withdraw, to build a wall around ourselves, to push people away.
But that’s the last thing we should do.
When setbacks leave your faith weak, you need other people to trust God for you. You need a church family to help support you.
When Job lost his family, finances, and health, it was a devastating setback—just as it would have been for anyone.
But here’s what one of Job’s friends told him: “Don’t let your anger and the pain you endured make you sneer at God . . . Others have praised God for what he has done, so join with them” (Job 36:18, 24 CEV).
That’s great advice. When you’re in the midst of troubles, don’t get bitter. Join with others who can pray with you, worship with you, and support you.
Where do you find that kind of support?
First, join with others for worship at a local church. Worshiping with other people will give you a new perspective on your setbacks.
Second, get involved in some kind of small group Bible study. Most churches are too big to build relationships just through attending worship services. You need a group of 10 to 12 people where you can not only study the Bible, but you can also share your pain and pray with others.
You won’t find a comeback on your own. You need God’s people to build you up and help you focus on God.
It’s a huge step toward your comeback. Just ask Paul. He wrote this about the support of other Christians as he sat in a Roman prison: “Because you are praying for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ is helping me, I know this trouble will bring my freedom” (Philippians 1:19 NCV).
With the support and prayers of God’s people, your setback is only temporary. Your best days are ahead.
Talk It Over
When times are tough, do you tend to withdraw or to rush toward others? Why do you think you lean in that direction?
How has the support of other Christians impacted you in the past during setbacks?
What other followers of Jesus in your life right now can you depend on during difficult days?
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