Q: Jill, how does knowing that God is in our circumstances comfort us, even when the circumstances are terrible?
A: We have to live in what we know, not simply what we feel. When we’re in trouble, we’re going to feel emotional. And so often we’re not going to feel God in those circumstances. The comfort is in our knowing that our Redeemer lives, that God is in control when we’re out of control, and that He promised us all things will work out in the end for good. It’s rehearsing what we know and not listening to what we feel that will encourage us.
Q: How do we begin to find courage when we find ourselves in a dark place?
A: Courage is not a feeling. Courage is doing the right thing because it’s the right thing to do—regardless of how we feel. We find courage to do the right thing, when we simply decide to do it. It’s really a question of our will—ignoring our feelings and doing what’s right—and then trusting that the Holy Spirit will give us the spiritual wisdom to know what to say or do.