Ten Biblical Responses To Any Circumstance In Life

Here are ten responses from the Bible to use in times of physical affliction, emotional  pain, financial  hardship, or in making difficult decisions. Although one would probably not put all nine into practice at the same time, consider them to be a “spiritual menu” of godly responses. It would depend upon the type of circumstance.

One, thankfulness.

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thess. 5:18).

Two, allow the circumstance to build your godly character.

We know that for those who love God all things work together for good for those who are called according to his purpose…  To be conformed to the image of his son (Romans 8:28-29).  Circumstances may not change, but one’s character can become more like Christ in response to the circumstance.

Three, learn to be content.

Godliness with contentment is great gain, For we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world (1 Timothy 6:6).

Four, be anxious for nothing.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let request be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).

Five, have endurance.

Blessed is the one who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life which God has promised to those who love him (James 1:12).

Six, do not lose heart.

Do not lose heart…For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us, an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison as we look not to the things that are seen, but to the things that are unseen (1 Corinthians 4:16-17).

Seven, don’t make money and success your priority.

As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, not to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God who richly provides us with everything to enjoy (1 Timothy 6:17).

Eight, seek God‘s peace about the decision.

Refer to Philippians 4:6-7 above.

Nine, lean not on your own understanding.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your path (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Ten, think positively.

To God, who is able to do far more than we even ask or think, according to the power that works within us (Ephesians 3:20).

Some of the above are easy to do consciously, but others, a person has to grow in grace to develop those responses. Nonetheless, one or more can be used as needed. I have attempted to make a list of verses to use in any or all situations.

I will end with this quote from author, Paul David Tripp: “Many things in life are out of your control. You face many things that make you feel unprepared, small, or weak…No, you will not always see [God’s] hand. You often won’t understand what he is doing. There will be points when life won’t make sense to you. At times you will wish that life could be different. There will be moments when you will feel unprepared for what is on your plate. In these moments look up and remember that above it all there is a throne, and on it sits a God of unimaginable majesty, ruling all for his glory and for your good.” (New Morning Mercies, Crossway Publishers, 2014, Quote taken from August 12 devotional).