Every cloud has a silver lining — like the story of a guy who broke his wrist and ended up meeting his future wife in the hospital. In such situations, no one needs to believe in God to see this happy coincidence as an act of Providence. But what about those situations without any silver lining at all? Can we like St. Therese of Lisieux and claim that “Everything is a blessing,” no matter the circumstances?
A few Bible verses to help us through tough times
When something tragic happens, the initial feeling of outrage is absolutely normal. God doesn’t like to see his children suffer from disease or heartbreak. But once the tragedy has taken place, we need to quickly recall a few Bible verses to help us calm down. For example: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Rom, 8:28) or “God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear” (1Cor, 10:13).
And why not tell God:
“In these verses, I hear You speak to me and I ask the Holy Spirit to impress them deep in my heart. I meditate on them and transform them into the living words and gradually instead of contemplating my disappointments or my rage, I tell the lord as He did, ‘Father everything is possible for you. Yet not what I will, but what you will.’ (Mark. 14:36)”.
Meditate on the life of saints
It can also be interesting to re-read the four pages that the Catechism of the Catholic Church has consecrated to the mystery of Providence (§ 302-314), to recall how all saints accepted their mistakes and failures. A meditation to help:
“Father, I don’t really know why You have allowed this trial into my life, why You haven’t asked my guardian angel to prevent me from this situation, but I believe it is for my good, and that I will learn the reasons for it in Heaven!”
Give thanks to the Lord
Even if the words of thanks don’t come instantly, it is good to thank the Lord:
“I thank you for having considered me worthy to carry this cross. And I repeat to You together with St. Paul: “I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church” (Co 1:24). Henceforth, I will try to never forget what John Vianney used to tell his parishioners: “To each his cross. Had we known all the merits they procure, we would be stealing them one from the other!”
Ask for help to overcome a trial
But most importantly, we should ask the Lord for help:
“Lord, give me your Spirit so I can take part in all the impenetrable designs of your Providence by saying yes!”
Father Pierre Descouvemont
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And today we celebrate...