Garwood Presbyterian Church

Being Joyful During Difficult Times

Hab. 3:17-18, Acts 16:16-34, James 1:2-4

1. The Chickadee Bird
   1. It does not migrate or hibernate during the winter.
   2. It provides an example for us as it lives through the very difficult conditions of harsh Midwestern and Canadian winters without complaining.
2. The Example of Paul and Silas in Acts 16
   1. They are falsely accused, severely flogged, and thrown into prison.
   2. Yet, instead of complaining, they were rejoicing, "praying and singing hymns to God."
3. How Can We Be More Joyful, Instead of Being a Complainer, When Things Are Difficult?
   1. Turn to God, and He will have compassion and comfort you.
      1. Isaiah 49:13
   2. Don't deny your pain, but release it to God.
      1. Psalm 126:5
      2. Matthew 5:4
   3. We can always be joyful "in the Lord," for who and how He is.
      1. Isaiah 58:14
      2. Habakkuk 3:17-18
   4. With God with us, things will change for the better.
      1. Isaiah 54:1
      2. Isaiah 61:1-3
   5. Trials and tests develop our perseverance, and help us become mature and complete.
      1. James 1:2-4
   6. When we go through difficult times for God, He will later reward us in heaven.
      1. Matthew 5:11-12
      2. Hebrews 12:2

Conclusion: Apply this truth of God's Word to your life, and when things get difficult, you will become more joyful and less of a complainer.