We will all inevitably face times of crisis, whether personal or as a nation. We find examples of how to cope in Scripture.
Learn How to Cope in Crisis from the Old Testament Prophet Habakkuk
Habakkuk provides an example of dealing with crisis that has a more global, or national, reach. He wrote of destruction, violence, strife, conflict, injustice, and more (Hab. 1:3-4).
From Habakkuk we learn how to …
- rise above in times of crisis.
- pray as a way of trusting and praising God no matter what.
- give thanks for who God is and what He does.
(Click on the links for more on each of the above lessons.)
Habakkuk’s conclusion:
“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.” (Hab. 3:17-19)
Learn about Coping in Times of Crisis from the Apostle Paul
Paul provides an example of dealing with crisis on the personal level. He sometimes experienced hunger, thirst, and want of other basics. He faced persecution, shipwreck, and other dangers. (2 Cor. 11:23-28; Phil. 4:12)
From Paul’s life we learn how to …
find purpose even in negative circumstances and wrongs done by others by keeping the focus on Christ.
Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. … For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. … It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry … out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. (Phil. 1:12-26)
keep perspective by remembering that hardships and suffering provide opportunity to get to know the Lord better.
What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ. … I want to know Christ – yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings … (Phil. 3:7-11)
be content no matter the circumstances by finding strength in the Lord.
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Phil. 4:12-13)
Paul’s conclusion: “To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Phil. 4:20)