God Can Use Dark Times for Good - Daily Hope with Rick Warren - June 25, 2020

rick warrens daily hope new banner may 2022

God Can Use Dark Times for Good
By Rick Warren

“We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9 NLT).

None of us are exempt from suffering, loneliness, discouragement, or unjust criticism. Why?

Because those are things Jesus experienced, and we need to experience them too for God to develop the character of Christ in us.

Does this mean God causes tragedies? No. God is good, and he will not cause evil or do evil. But God can use dark and stressful times like these for good. He can use our current troubles to teach us to trust him, to show us how to help others, and to draw us closer to other believers.

The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, “We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed” (NLT).

So, what should you do when you’re going through difficult times?

First, refuse to be discouraged. Then, remember God is with you. Finally, rely on God’s protection and guidance.

God’s light shines even in the darkest shadows.

PLAY today’s audio teaching from Pastor Rick

For more Daily Hope with Rick Warren, please visit pastorrick.com!


Develop the Biblical Habits That Lead to Lasting Happiness!Your Gift Brings Hope to the World

Develop the Biblical Habits That Lead to Lasting Happiness!

Most people look for happiness in the wrong places. You won't find it through money, fame, or power.

You'll only find real, lasting happiness by following God's commands.

With The Habits of Happiness guided experience, you'll discover how happiness runs deeper than any circumstance, feeling, or relationship – because of God's unconditional love for you.


The Habits of Happiness guided experience is packed with devotionals, Scripture, and journal pages that will help you . . .

• Develop habits for healthier, happier relationships

• Unlock true happiness through humility

• Refuse to worry about anything

*The USA IRS code permits you to deduct the amount of your financial gift to Daily Hope that exceeds the fair market value of “current offer” materials you received from Daily Hope.

This devotional © 2018 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

You can listen to Rick Warren on OnePlace.com.

SHARE