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Often, as we are going through life, everything is running smoothly. Then suddenly, it’s not. When that happens it’s only human, and very appropriate, to ask God to change or take away our difficult circumstances. It is not appropriate to expect or demand it. We must trust in God’s love and sovereignty, even when we can’t feel it. 

It’s interesting that in the Garden of Gethsemane, even Jesus, asked His Heavenly Father to “take away” the task before him: crucifixion on a cross. Yet, he was still willing to accept whatever the Father said He was to do. (Matthew 26:36-46.) 

Whether it’s financial challenges, parental or sibling clashes, partner struggles, in-law problems, the loss of a job, a scary health diagnosis or some other difficulty, we all need to pray about everything (Philippians 4:6), and trust God in the midst of our disappointments, trials or frightening circumstances (Romans 8:28-29). 

Then, we must do everything we can to mitigate and soothe the conflict, problem or trauma. This includes both seeking out wise counsel and accepting help and comfort from friends or professionals. We don’t need to navigate difficulties alone.