I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love, =
because you have seen my affliction;
you have known the distress of my soul.
– Psalm 31:7 (ESV)

“Why is this happening?” As coaches, we have asked ourselves this question many times. The pieces were in place for a great season, but it just didn’t happen. You have poured yourself into the job for years and now they want to fire you. We have a great season going; why are the parents giving me grief about their child’s playing time? It’s the biggest game of the season; why did my best player decide to get into trouble today? Years ago, someone shared this wisdom with me and it stuck. “You can’t run away from trouble; there’s no place that far.” Since it’s impossible to outrun our problems, it’s critical to decide how we’re going to handle them.

Catch phrases for dealing with adversity are plentiful. “It will all work out in the end.” “It isn’t as bad as you think it is.” And my wife’s personal favorite, “This too shall pass.” While each of these sayings hold a degree of truth, most of us want a little more assurance. Well, what does the Bible say? First, it tells us to put our trust in God. Second, it tells us when we pray to Him, He hears our prayer. Third, it tells us to move forward with faith and confidence in the future—God will never abandon us. God said from the cross on which His Son died, “I know the heartaches, the sorrows and the pain you feel, but I love you.” God knows, God cares, and God will see us through.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unending love. Thank You for hearing my prayer and for always being there for me. Teach me to trust You completely and to understand that if You brought me to it, You will bring me through it. Amen.