By RAY ADLER
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It drove me crazy as a kid when my father used to tell me, “It’s all in your mind.”
In a series of previous columns in January, we discussed the importance of carefully planning and establishing goals. As I have previously stated, in my experience, setting audacious goals has provided tremendous reward, and I have achieved more than I ever thought possible. However, what happens when your well-laid plans fall apart or a goal for which you have been striving fails? I am no stranger to failure, and through the years, I experienced my fair share of defeat.
In times of difficulty, my father’s unpretentious (though agitating) expression rings loudly in my ears, pushing me on through the muck of tribulation. Even the best laid plans are not insulated from failure. In fact, it seems to me that the goals we prop up the most are the goals that fail most spectacularly. How then do we respond when our plans come tumbling down? The Bible, in the Book of James, says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”
Count it all joy? Really? I can’t say that joy is the first emotion I experience when I fail. Upon further reflection, however, I’ve come to realize that my character has grown the most in times of trouble. Thus, in the midst of trials, we can be confident that our suffering is not in vain. For the Lord uses our trials in order to build our character and make us more like Him.
So how do we make this truth a reality in our daily lives? I believe it is about perspective and gratitude. We have been blessed with the gift of life each new morning and are provided an opportunity to honor Him who created us. During times of trouble or failure, my business partner is resolute in saying, “What does this make possible?” because in every disaster there are the seeds of an equal or greater opportunity, whether it be inward sanctification and character growth or outward gain. Therefore, if we are able to experience joy in failure or difficult circumstances, knowing that the present pain will lead to growth and sanctification, failure does not seem so great an adversary.
For many, the previous two years have been extremely difficult and trying. COVID-19, lockdowns, social unrest, inflation, economic turmoil, just to name a few. Yet, let us not miss out on the opportunities and blessing that might flow from these tumultuous times. Rejoice in the difficulty, knowing that your faith and character are being strengthened. Continue setting goals and looking for the gold among the sludge.
Educational material and not legal advice, written by the team at Adler attorneys. Email andrea@noblesvilleattorney.com with questions or comments.