Written By: Matthew Karns
For many Christians, life can often resemble a rollercoaster, filled with ups and downs and unexpected turns. This happens to all of us, Christian or not. Serving God certainly makes our problems easier, but it doesn’t take them away. It is essential to remember that behind every smiling face, there may reside an unseen battle. People have an incredible ability to camouflage their internal conflicts while outwardly appearing perfectly fine.
These conflicts sometimes branch out from melancholy into more profound struggles, such as depression. However, through faith and perseverance, it is possible to rise above these challenges.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I can trace back to some of the toughest moments in my life. The year 2001 marked a profound turning point when I faced the personal loss of close friends. This loss weighed heavily on my heart. As if that burden was not enough, the tragic national events of September 11 that same year compounded the emotions I already felt. It was a time filled with sorrow and despair as the world grappled with the aftermath of such violence. I remember the difficulty in processing grief—both my own and that felt collectively as a nation.
Fast forward to 2008. I entered a new chapter of my life: marriage. While this was a joyous occasion, it did come with its own set of challenges. As a new convert working hard to maintain my salvation, the Devil constantly barraged my mind, telling me I was not worthy of God’s salvation. The rough and humble beginnings of marriage were accompanied by the incessant harassment of the mind battles instigated by the Devil. It felt as though I was fighting a war within. However, in navigating these dark times, I discovered what truly mattered—laboring for God and His Kingdom became my refuge.
Engaging in service, whether through volunteering or supporting my community, turned out to be a healing balm. Focusing on God allowed me to lift the weight of my struggles and provided me purpose.
Then came 2023, a year that tested my faith in unprecedented ways. My family faced a staggering 11 months of unemployment. It was a time of uncertainty – one where doubt could have easily taken root, sowing seeds of despair. Yet, I made a conscious decision to put my total confidence and trust in God. I resolved that my identity and worth were not tied to my job but rather rooted in my faith. During this phase, I learned the value of gratitude. I discovered small blessings each day and reinforced the belief that I could find peace and joy regardless of external circumstances.
Life’s challenges can often mask our deeper conflicts, but they can also become our stepping stones to spiritual maturity. Trusting godly parents and family or friends greatly aids in the healing process. I leaned on my support group: my faith in God and my Pastor to help me through my darkest days. By being genuine about our battles, we can encourage one another to lean into faith rather than retreat into isolation.
Recognizing our internal conflicts and bravely facing them is crucial for personal growth. Whether dealing with loss, hardship, or unemployment, the path towards healing often lies in surrendering these burdens to God. As we embrace our faith and labor for His Kingdom, we can emerge not just as survivors, but as transformed individuals empowered to face life’s trials with grace and strength. It is in these challenging moments that our faith deepens, illuminating the path ahead, and reminding us that we are never alone.
