How To Handle Tough Times In Nigeria

Introduction: It is natural that at one time or the other in a man’s life, one will definitely experience tough times.

Robert Schuler, a Christian Author and Pastor, is a testifier of this fact when he declares in one of his books “Tough Times Never Last But Tough People”. Even the scriptures give credence to this truth when it said in II Tim. 31:1 that “……in the last day’s perilous times shall come”.

The current economic hardship in Nigeria is alarming inspite of the abundance of natural resources. Most families are deep down, frustrated and not knowing what to do. Some have taken to the shortest possible cut to life just cope with the growing economic woes.

The reason for this ugly trend is corruption which has become endemic in the system. Imagine one idiot will steal billions and billions of money and would want to be justified and celebrated. What is supposed to be blessing to all Nigerians have become the fortune of the few. It is indeed very sad and must be discontinued.

In this post, we are looking at the hardship in the country and the ways to handle the tough times in Nigeria what to do during such times and the benefits of standing strong when times are tough. We also bring in some Biblical facts to aide us in getting over this problem.

1. WHAT ARE TOUGH TIMES?

Tough times simply mean an interval in one’s life when hope seems lost and the tears flow unceasingly. It is a time when fear jumps into one’s mind to sap out and destroy enthusiasm. It is a time when one is tempted to question the integrity of God’s word and His sovereignty too. The truth about tough times is that though they appear long, they do not last forever. Tough times could be a trial or test of faith for a Christian. In Nigeria today, for example, we must not surrender to tough times. Remember satan was allowed to try Job. Job 1:12 & 3:25-26.

2. WHY TOUGH TIMES?

The world system is contrary to man (believers and unbelievers alike) due to sin. Life will not give you what you desire until you make a demand for it. The scripture declares that the world system was contrary to our Lord Jesus Christ, and so you should not expect anything different as a believer. Tough times are allowed by God, neither to destroy nor to torment us, but to strengthen and stabilize us, and produce character in us. James 1:2-4; Deut. 8:3; 1Cor. 10:13.

Whatever the nature of the problem you are confronted with, one thing is certain; God did not permit it to destroy you. It could be true that you did not choose the kind of tough times you pass through, but you can at lease choose how to react to it. Your reaction will determine whether you would sink with the ugly situation or come out of it unscathed.

1. ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM

Accept the fact that the problem exists. Never under-estimate nor over-estimate the challenge or affliction. Put it in its proper perspective. If you are having the problem of infertility for instance, acknowledge that fact and set your heart to overcome it. 1Sam. 1-11; II Kgs. 7:1-5.

2. LOOK UP TO JESUS

When everything looks dark and hopeless, look unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. He has promised that He will not leave you comfortless. Remind Him of His promises as often as you can. Jn. 14:18; Heb. 12:2; Mk5:36c; Matt. 28:20b.

3. CONFESS THE WORD OF GOD

It is very important that you find out what the Bible says about your situation. Study the scriptures relevant to your problem, meditate on them and confess them. God expects you to reason with Him and plead your case before Him. Don’t close your mouth so as not to close your destiny. Your confession will bring about your deliverance. Isa. 43:26; II Cor. 4:13; Rom. 10:8-10.

4. REJOICE ALWAYS

The Bible declares that the joy of the Lord is your strength. It is with joy you overcome hardship. Do not let the devil steal your joy. And do not allow your situation dictate your day. Isa. 12:3; Neh. 8:10c; Jer. 15:16.

5. THINK POSITIVELY

The way you see your situation determines your reaction and attitude towards the challenges you are faced with. If you are mentally calm and persistent, you can think your way through the problems. The thought that dominates your mind determines what your life will become much more than the circumstances you are confronted with. No one can overcome the challenges of life until his/her thoughts are positive. Let your mind be above defeat and your life will be above failure. Phil. 4:7; Prov. 23:7.

6. ENGAGE IN INTENSE AND PERSISTENT PRAYERS:

Prayer is one of the potent and unconquerable weapons at your disposal. When we pray, heaven responds to rescue and deliver us from trials and challenges of life. Pray and engage in meaning ventures until your change comes. Don’t give up, victory is guaranteed for you. You can add days of fasting to enhance your prayer times. God hears and answers prayers. Jer. 33:3; Luke 18:1-8.

BENEFITS OF TOUGH TIMES

God has not left you in this world to fight a battle you are not equipped to win. Do not run away from the problems, face them and convert them to stepping stones that will catapult you to greatness in life. The benefits are:

1. VICTORY

Victory is assured each time you handle your tough time properly because satan is a defeated foe already. If you refuse to quit but confront the situation, you will surely have the victory. 1 Cor. 15:57-58; 2 Cor. 2:4

2. PROMOTION

Tough times, if well handled, could open door to greater achievements. What you think is a stumbling block could very well be your stepping stone to higher heights after all. Job 42:12; Rom. 8:28.

3. MATURITY

Tough times create the opportunity to grow to maturity both physically and spiritually. You become more confident of the greatness of the God you serve that is able to save in times of trouble. Moreover, you will able to comfort/counsel others who are going through similar situations in the future. II Cor. 1:3-4.

CONCLUSION

Tough times are inevitable experiences in the life of every individual no matter your social standing. They could be beneficial and are not peculiar to any particular set or group of people. No human being is excluded. But within every man is the power to overcome when the times are not favourable. If well handled, every adversity can be turned into an advantage. For no matter how dark the night may be, it must surely break into day. At the end of every dark tunnel is the bright shining light of God’s love. Ps. 30:5b.

Note, your solution is in your ability to endure hardship as our Lord Jesus Christ said. Do not be intimidated by what you are passing through. Stand firm and confront the situation, your victory is assured in Christ Jesus. Rom. 8:37.