Purpose in Struggles

There have been some dry spells this summer, and my withering and parched lawn was certainly showing the effects of it. My first inclination was to swing into rescue mode and haul the hose out for daily watering, believing that I was doing the best for it, and keeping it ultra-hydrated and from as much distress as possible. A little research on lawn care showed me that this well-intentioned, extra care and attention routine could actually be hurting my lawn and creating shallow root systems and an inability to withstand the rigors of future heat and drought.

It is natural to want to escape suffering as soon as possible and not live in discomfort. We usually want the quick and easy way out. As a parent, I have found it difficult at times to watch my children struggle with various challenges that they have faced. The temptation is to step in and take over or rescue them from the difficulty rather than have them suffer. Yet, I know that if I handle everything for them, I will potentially be removing learning and growth opportunities which could be crippling them in the future.

I know for myself that the times in my life when I have faced my greatest challenges have been the times when I have experienced the most growth. Author and theologian, Tim Keller, agrees that suffering has its purpose and usefulness. Adversity and setbacks are even needed to produce higher levels of strength, fulfillment, and personal development in people. He explains that the benefits of suffering include a greater resilience for those who have endured and learned to cope well, the strengthening of relationships with others and with God, and a reordering of views and priorities that help one to move beyond goals that focus on their own personal achievement and happiness.

There is purpose and meaning in challenges and pain, and it should not be wasted. Growth and strength development do not happen automatically when we are challenged. It does depend on our response to it. During the most difficult times in my life, I challenged myself with the question of whether I wanted to become bitter or better through it all. I realize that there are various levels of challenges and suffering that we face in this life, and I do not want to minimize those tough places. Yet they do not have to be places without any good. I would like to encourage you to talk to someone you can trust to support you through your difficulties and help you to see your strengths. Take time to consider what may need to be changed or developed in your life to better meet the challenging times that will come again in your life.