Finding God in Everyday Life, Especially in Troubled Times

The world can often feel like a chaotic and unpredictable place. Headlines are filled with stories of suffering, injustice, and uncertainty. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the weight of the world and lose sight of God’s presence in our lives. But even in the midst of trials and tribulations, God is there. He’s not just found in grand miracles or extraordinary events; He’s present in the everyday moments, the ordinary routines, and the unexpected blessings. As Christians, we are called to seek Him out, to find Him in the everyday, and to draw strength and hope from His unwavering presence. This is especially important in troubled times, when our faith may be tested and our hope may waver. By recognizing God in the mundane, we cultivate a foundation of faith that sustains us during challenging times. Just as Jacob awoke from his dream and realized that God was present in an ordinary place, we too can discover that God is with us in every aspect of our lives1.

Actively Seeking God

While God is present in every aspect of our lives, it’s important to actively seek Him out and develop a relationship with Him. This involves more than just attending church on Sundays; it means incorporating faith into every aspect of our lives2. It means making time for prayer and scripture reading, allowing God’s word to guide our thoughts and actions. It means seeing every moment as an opportunity for prayer and connection with God, whether we’re folding laundry, commuting to work, or enjoying a meal with loved ones3.

Recognizing God’s Presence in Everyday Blessings

One of the most powerful ways to find God in everyday life is to recognize His presence in the blessings that surround us. This includes the wonders of creation, such as the beauty of a sunrise, the majesty of a mountain range, or the intricate design of a flower. As Psalm 19:1 declares, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” 4 When we take the time to appreciate these wonders, we are reminded of God’s power, His creativity, and His love for us.

But God’s blessings extend beyond the natural world. He also provides for our needs in countless ways, from the food we eat and the clothes we wear to the roof over our heads and the skills and talents we possess. Our friends and family are also precious gifts from God, enriching our lives with love and support. Even the simple pleasures of life, like a cup of coffee or a good meal, can be seen as expressions of God’s care for our well-being2.

To truly appreciate these blessings, it’s essential to silence the noise and distractions of the world and cultivate a spirit of gratitude. By quieting the demands of “Self” and focusing on God’s provision, we become more attuned to His presence in our lives5.

Seeing God in Work

Work can often feel like a burden, especially in a world that values productivity and achievement. But God created us to work, and He can be found in our daily labors. Whether we are doctors, teachers, artists, or stay-at-home parents, our work can be a way to serve God and bless others2.

Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” 4 When we approach our work with this perspective, we find meaning and purpose in our daily tasks and see them as opportunities to glorify God.

Discovering God in Trials

Perhaps the most challenging place to find God is in the midst of trials and suffering. When we are facing illness, financial hardship, or personal loss, it can be difficult to see God’s hand at work. But even in these dark moments, God is present. He is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble4., Psalm 46:1]

Trials can be opportunities for growth, for deepening our faith, and for drawing closer to God. As Romans 5:3-5 tells us, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” 2

Biblical Examples of Finding God in Unexpected Places

The Bible is filled with stories of people who found God in unexpected places and circumstances. Jacob, fleeing from his brother, had a dream of a stairway to heaven while sleeping on a stone pillow. He awoke and declared, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” 1

Moses encountered God in a burning bush, a seemingly ordinary object transformed by the divine presence. Elijah, seeking God, first experienced a strong wind, an earthquake, and a fire, before hearing Him in a still, small voice6., 1 Kings 19:11-13] These stories remind us that God can be found anywhere, at any time, if we are open to His presence.

Inspirational Quotes About Faith and Hope

Throughout history, people of faith have shared their insights on the importance of faith and hope, especially in difficult times. Here are a few inspiring quotes to encourage you:

• “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” – Martin Luther King Jr7.
• “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” – Desmond Tutu 8
• “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” – Corrie ten Boom 9
• “Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark.” – Rabindranath Tagore 10

Stories of Faith in Troubled Times

Even in our own time, there are countless stories of people who have found God in the midst of adversity. One woman, facing the immense challenges of solitary confinement in county jail for nearly two years, found solace and strength in praying to St. Therese, the Little Flower. In the confines of her cell, with limited resources, she discovered a prayer to St. Therese and experienced a profound sense of God’s presence and comfort11. Another woman, overwhelmed by anxiety and uncertainty during the pandemic, felt a strong call from God to homeschool her son, despite her fears and lack of experience. Trusting in God’s guidance, she embraced this unexpected path and found peace and purpose in this new challenge11.

These stories, and countless others, remind us that God is present in every situation, even the most challenging ones. When we turn to Him in faith, He provides the strength, hope, and guidance we need to navigate difficult times.

Embracing God’s Presence in the Everyday

Finding God in everyday life is not a passive activity. It requires intentionality, awareness, and a willingness to see God’s hand at work in the world around us. It means cultivating a spirit of gratitude, seeking out moments of connection with God, and trusting in His presence even when we cannot see it.

In these troubled times, it is more important than ever to find God in the everyday. When we do, we discover that He is our constant companion, our source of strength, and our beacon of hope. He is there in the beauty of creation, in the gifts He provides, in our work, and even in our trials. By finding God in the everyday, we cultivate a foundation of faith and hope that sustains us during challenging times. When we embrace His presence, we find peace, joy, and purpose, even in the midst of uncertainty.