How to Focus on Christ in the Worst of Circumstances
In especially trying times, it can be hard to find guidance that really helps, and worn maxims like "this too shall pass" can seem trite and oversimplified. It's at these times that focusing on Christ can seem most difficult. To get through and maintain focus, remember a few key things and know where to look for help.
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Instructions
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Adopt a holistic worldview---after all, if God is responsible for rainbows, then He is also responsible for rain. Remember that there is an answer and a purpose to any quandary. Knowing this can help you find the willingness to search for that answer rather than just brushing it off.
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Remember the basic tenets of faith---that you are loved and respected by Jesus, and that He cannot abandon you. This will help you start to focus on Christ regardless of how difficult things are at any given moment. Christ's love for you is a static and unchanging truth that can provide a helpful foundation for deeper understanding, even though it may seem to be a general concept.
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Consider what it is that is making things seem so trying or unbearable to find the elements of the Bible that are most relevant to your particular situation. Boil your circumstances down to their essence, and keep in mind that it may not help to think of things literally. If necessary, look for terms that seem appropriate in your Bible concordance (a cross-referenced encyclopedia of terms in the Bible).
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Refer to the Bible concordance or searchable online Bible to find New Testament passages that reflect your situation. Read them carefully, and keep in mind that many of Christ's teachings are parables, meant to be instructive beyond their face value. Don't read for quotes; understand the context around each passage so that you can consider it as a unified whole.
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Ask specific questions of the Bible, and if you can't find clear answers that satisfy you, turn to your priest or other religious counselor. Remember that they have been trained in interpreting the Bible and will be able to figure out the most theologically appropriate way to interpret the metaphors and parables to help you find guidance and remain focused on Christ no matter how difficult times are.
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References
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