When we’re walking through the fire of trials, it can often feel as though we are surrounded by darkness. The weight of our struggles, the pain of our loss, and the confusion of our circumstances can cloud our vision and cause us to question the goodness of God. Yet, in moments like these, it is crucial that we take a step back and remember all that God has already done for us. Psalm 103:2 reminds us, “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
This verse serves as a powerful reminder that, even in the midst of hardship, we must not forget the goodness and faithfulness of God in the past. The benefits we’ve experienced through God’s love, provision, and grace should be a source of comfort and hope when trials threaten to overwhelm us. But how can we truly hold onto this hope, especially when our current struggles seem so intense?
One way to approach this is by reflecting on a familiar saying: “Hindsight is 20/20.” We all know this phrase, and it’s often used to acknowledge how easy it is to see things clearly once the moment has passed. We tend to understand our actions, decisions, and even our life circumstances more clearly when we look back from a place of safety or peace. And when it comes to our relationship with God, this is a truth that holds deep meaning.
In the midst of our trials, it’s difficult to understand what God is doing. We lack the perfect perspective, the righteousness to fully comprehend His perfect will. We might not be able to see how our suffering is ultimately working for our good or how God is using our pain for His purposes. But, as believers, we don’t have to understand everything in the moment. In fact, our lack of understanding is a reminder that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Instead of becoming discouraged by what we can’t see, we can turn our focus to what we do know. Even though we may not fully grasp the reasons behind our suffering, we can always look back and remember the countless times God has been faithful in the past. We can recall the ways He has healed us, provided for us, protected us, and worked miracles in our lives. When we meditate on His goodness in the past, we begin to see the hand of God in everything—both the blessings and the trials.
It’s easy to become consumed with our immediate struggles and forget all the ways God has delivered us in the past. This is why Psalm 103:2 is so vital: “Forget not all his benefits.” When we choose to remember what God has done for us, it strengthens our faith and shifts our focus away from our circumstances to the One who holds our future. As we look back at the faithfulness of God, we can be encouraged that He will continue to be faithful in the present and the future.
Think about it—every time God has brought you through a difficult time in the past, He’s shown you that He’s trustworthy. You might not have understood what He was doing when you were in the middle of the storm, but now, with hindsight, you can see how He used that season to shape your faith, grow your character, or lead you to a deeper relationship with Him. And even if you still don’t have all the answers, looking back at how God has been faithful to you time and time again gives you confidence that He is with you now and will see you through this current trial as well.
Remember, trials are a part of life for every believer. They are not signs of God’s absence or abandonment. In fact, the trials you face are often the very moments when God is most present, shaping you into the person He wants you to be. You may not be able to see the full picture right now, but you can be assured that He is working for your good (Romans 8:28).
So, in your current trial, take a moment to look back. Reflect on the countless ways God has worked in your life—how He has healed, provided, and carried you through difficulties in the past. As you remember all His benefits, let those memories strengthen your hope and renew your faith. Even when you can’t see what God is doing in your suffering, you can take comfort in knowing He has never failed you before, and He won’t fail you now.
In the end, when the trial is over and you look back with the clarity of hindsight, you will see God’s hand more clearly, just as you have in the past. And when that moment comes, you can praise Him all the more for His faithfulness—both in the trial and in the deliverance that follows.
Until then, may you find hope in remembering all that God has done for you, and trust that He will continue to be with you through every trial you face.
