Through out the past year I have seen people facing various trials. Decisions have had to be made about surgeries, caring for parents, helping loved ones who are ill with cancer and on and on the list goes. In my own family we too are dealing with trials. There were marital issues, health issues, and the general anxieties of raising children and paying bills. It is easy at times like this to feel like you are standing underneath a rushing waterfall that at any moment could either drown you or carry you away.

As I minister to family, friends, and co-workers who are in the midst of a trial, I find that I am often at a loss for words. I feel like there should be something I can say that will help the person feel better. I have found however, that my words are not adequate enough to bring about real peace in that person’s life. This was something that bothered me greatly. Then God made me realize that while I don’t have the words that bring about peace he does and that all I need to do is share his words with others.

For example, I can’t explain why certain trials are taking place in their lives but I can share God’s word about his having a plan: The Lord works out everything for his own ends-even the wicked for a day of disaster. (Proverbs 16:4)

I can’t explain why people suffer the way they do but I can remind others of God’s words in Psalm 142:3 When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you who know my way.

I can’t always come up with the right words to say when I find myself praying with someone who needs comfort but I can know If I lift up my eyes to the hills-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:7-8), that God will give me the words to say.

We are not called upon to try and explain the reason why things are happening. Too often we get stuck on the idea that if we can’t give someone an answer to the why question then we should steer clear of the situation. Don’t get caught up in believing that you have to have the answers to the whys and how comes of life. Instead tell people what you do know and that is Your word, Lord, is eternal: it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures. (Psalm 119:89-90). God’s word is the truth that will enable you to help others focus on his cans and not our cant’s.