This, too, will pass

Long ago, there was a parable told about monarch who had commissioned a jewelry designer to create for him a custom, solid-gold ring. The monarch planned on wearing the ring daily. But, the monarch wanted a few words engraved on the ring which would offer him comfort during challenging or distressing times.

So the monarch asked scholars and philosophers from far and wide for words of wisdom. It must be a motto that is endlessly enduring, words to ease a person’s heart and mind in different circumstances.

As the weeks passed, many came forth with their thoughts. The monarch jotted down their recommendations. He pondered upon each one. Then, slowly and regretfully the king shook his head. “No,” he whispered under his breath, for the monarch wasn’t encouraged by any of the suggestions.

The next day, the monarch awoke to the pale light of early morning. Then, there was a knock at the door. It was a man from the village who had heard about the monarch’s request, and he wanted to meet with the monarch.

Kindly, the monarch agreed. And, face to face together, keeping his voice low, the village manuttered to the monarch, “There are four words that have given me great comfort in my lifetime, and I will gladly offer them to you.”

Following his gaze, the monarch leaned forward. In anticipation, he waited to hear what the village man had to say. A moment later, the man said with a warm, gracious smile, “The words are: This, too, will pass.”

There was complete silence in the room. Heart- ened, the monarch was clearly moved by the words. And, thereafter, he had them engraved on his ring.

Are you in a difficult situation? Is your motivation becoming almost depleted? For, sometimes, every day can feel like chaos. Or, perhaps, saddened, you can’t figure out, “What should I do next.”

Yet, the Bible promises that these afflictions will pass, and that all things are temporary. God knows where you are today. He wants to give ease to your suffering. Therefore, keep on holding strong. God is at work right now to give you ‘Beauty instead of ashes,’ ‘Joy instead of mourning,’ and ‘Praise instead of a heavy, burdened, and failing spirit.’ (Isaiah 61:3).

Psalm 30:5 says: “Weep- ing may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” So keep being faithful. For God is saying to you now: This, too, will pass.

•If you’re burdened down with anxiety; remember this, too, will pass.

•When your heart is heavy; remember this, too, will pass.

•When it seems as though you will never be happy again; remember this, too, will pass.

•If your circumstance looks bleak; remember this, too, will pass.

•When success seems unattainable; remember this, too, will pass.

So despite what challenges lie in your path, your situation is going to improve. Don’t let discouragement take over. God’s word says that all things work for the good of those that love God and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28). Hence, in good or difficult times, God is still in control and has a perfect plan. And somehow, someway, everything is going to work out for your good and for His glory.

Be patient. Be bold. Be courageous. Free yourself from stress and cultivate inner peace and happiness by keeping your thoughts and speech positive. When you talk over and over about your problems, you’re just fixating on the negative. Rather, let go of all your worries and give them all to God. Become like a deep lake, less affected by the ripples on the surface. Then, in time, your entire being can be