When troubles come, and they will, do you react or respond? Do you understand there’s a difference? When we react, it’s usually a knee-jerk response, much like pulling your hand away from the fire. But responding takes forethought and training. We’ve probably all learned to react, as it’s what comes most naturally, but responding takes more effort and forethought. Unfortunately, reactions often cause more problems, or so it seems. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not opposed to reactions. Sometimes they’re the best choice given the circumstances.

I’ve often said that life happens for us or to us; it’s just a matter of perspective. But that perspective shapes everything, from your mood in the moment to your entire life. Yet we allow these troubles to affect us in heart-wrenching ways. It’s hard to see how anything good can come from these experiences, but I understand the fallout some troubles bring into our lives. In the moment, it’s hard to see any good that will come from them, but trust me, good can and does come from some of the most difficult events of life. Remember, diamonds only form under intense heat and pressure. Have you ever watched a blacksmith make knives or other objects from a flat piece of steel? The steel is pounded and heated to a glowing red, then pounded some more. Have you ever considered that the troubles you’re going through are part of the process of making you into something that could only happen under intense pressure and circumstances?

If you’re a follower of Christ, you know that the cross is both the instrument of shame and salvation, all rolled up into one. In fact, the writer of Hebrews states that we walk out this life “by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne” (Hebrews 12:2). What this means in part is that we understand there is purpose even in the troubles. Although we may not see it in the moment, we don’t give up. We see troubles through the lens of the cross. Think about it.