When Things Go Wrong

How often in our lives to things fail to go our way? Today's world tells us that the things that make us unhappy are a lack of money, possessions, and things like that. As followers of Christ, we have something better than those material things: God. Life can be challenging, but we have faith that the Lord is with us.

I like the words of Palm 91, especially verses 2-7, which read:

2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust."

3 Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare
and from the deadly pestilence.

4 He will cover you with his feathers,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

5 You will not fear the terror of night,
nor the arrow that flies by day,

6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
nor the plague that destroys at midday.

7 A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.

We can take a lot of confidence from this! It just means that, with God, we have nothing to fear. He will protect us from all the evils of this world, and keep us safe. We don't need wealth, power, status, or anything of the sort. With God, we have all that we need.

What about suffering? Is it right that, with God, we still should have hard times?

Yes.

Suffering is good in several ways. First, it reminds us of the evils of this world, and makes us recognize that heaven - and true happiness - awaits. Secondly, suffering can be a form of apostolate. In our suffering for Christ, taking up our crosses and following him, we set an example for others. Suffering, then, can be a gift, perhaps even a source of joy.

Finally, when things go wrong, pray. Pray for the intercession of the saints, Mary, and pray to the Lord Himself. They will look out for you.