One of the things that will help you to become more courageous is to recognize that there is value in each and every struggle. Though it’s natural to want an easy life with sunny skies and smooth sailing, the truth is that we are built to endure adversity; in fact, there is no way for us to become people who look and act like Jesus without it. Naturally, this brings me to the current state of our world and the continuing ravages of the coronavirus pandemic. While there are many things that make this season difficult — disruption of daily routines, lost income, and the looming threat of sickness — within its uncertainty is a gift. As strange as it sounds, there is a blessing in the struggle. This is not to take away from the gravity of the loss of life or the incredible pain our world is currently experiencing; it is only to say that hidden in this time of tribulation is a treasure unique to each individual. That’s why I encourage you to look for it.

My friend, struggle is a gift that forges courage and Christlikeness in your soul. Though you may be enduring grief beyond what you could have imagined, on the other side of it, you will be a stronger, more faith-filled, and empathic person. As you face this time of uncertainty, I encourage you to begin each day with a simple prayer that asks God what He wants to teach you and how He wants to use you to teach others. Keeping an open-hearted and open-handed posture in this season will ensure that not a moment of it is wasted and that you emerge stronger and more like your Savior when it’s over.