Finding Purpose in Trials: How Every Season Can Bring Growth and Faith
Have you ever wondered if there’s something deeper behind the tough seasons you walk through, moments that invite us into finding God in hard times? Finding purpose in trials is a question I keep coming back to in my own life, especially as I’ve learned more about finding purpose in suffering through Scripture. Every time I share my story, or listen to someone else open up about what they’ve experienced, I notice how often we miss the lesson God is inviting us to learn right in the middle of the mess—and how much Christian community support during adversity helps us see it. Let’s talk about how to see trials with fresh eyes and ask God what you can learn in every season.
Why Finding Purpose in Trials Makes All the Difference
Let me tell you about a conversation I had with myself not that long ago. I was right in the thick of some real challenges, the kind that leave you tired at the end of the day and wondering if you’re even on the right path. But here’s the thing. Instead of staying stuck in the frustration, I asked, "Father, what are you showing me here?"—a turning point that often leads to spiritual rebuilding after setbacks. For years, I missed that step. I just wanted things to get easier. But ever since I started looking for what God wanted me to learn, I started finding purpose in trials instead of feeling defeated by them.
Does this sound familiar? Sometimes it takes something hard to finally get us to slow down enough to listen, creating space for hearing God's voice daily. Sometimes, it takes a trial to reset our perspective. But once you do, you start to see how even ordinary days or difficult moments can shape your faith in the best possible way, especially when you’re focused on building strength in difficult seasons.
Learning to Ask the Right Questions in Tough Times
Here’s a question I keep asking (and I encourage you to ask too): "God, what can I learn from this experience?" Not, "Why me?" or "When will it be over?" But "What do you want to teach me through this?" That shift does something amazing in your heart, especially when you’re learning about trusting God through waiting instead of rushing the outcome. It takes your focus from the problem to the purpose, a shift that often begins with gratitude practices for healing. That’s where growth happens, even if you don’t see it right away.
I shared in our recent podcast episode that our family had to learn this lesson the hard way. When we first started traveling full-time in our motor coach, everything that could go wrong on travel days usually did. Six people, one puppy, and 300 square feet – emotions were high, tempers sometimes flared, and old habits of frustration surfaced. But we started pausing to ask, “What can we do differently next time?” You can’t always control the weather, traffic, or other people, but you get to choose your response. And in that space, you start finding purpose in trials instead of giving frustration more power.
How Scripture Points to Finding Purpose in Trials
Let’s get honest for a minute. The Bible doesn’t shy away from hard days or tough seasons. Scripture is filled with stories of people who found purpose right in the middle of their trials. I think of James 1:2-4 (CSB): "Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing."
That verse hits home. It’s not asking us to pretend everything is okay. It’s inviting us to trust that there is purpose and growth happening even when life feels overwhelming. When you read words like these, let them remind you that you’re not alone, and this season is not wasted. Finding purpose in trials is about looking for growth, not just getting through the day.
Real Life: How Our Community Finds Purpose in Trials
I’ve heard so many stories from friends and listeners who realized their faith was growing most during hardships. There’s a unique wisdom that comes when you’re willing to reflect instead of react. I’ve watched women in our community turn their stories into hope for others – not because everything was easy, but because they chose to look for meaning in the struggle.
Maybe you’re at a place where you want to know, "What’s the lesson here? What’s the reason for this season?" Even asking the question is a step toward purpose. You’re opening your heart to hear from God. That openness changes everything. Instead of feeling beat down, you start finding purpose in trials, and you become a light to someone else going through something similar. We have all learned something in hard places. Sometimes the lesson is simply to trust God more deeply.
Practical Steps for Finding Purpose in Trials Every Day
So how do we actually find purpose in trials in our daily lives? I want to share a few things that help me (and maybe they’ll help you too):
- Ask God directly – “Father, what are you teaching me?”
- Write down one thing you’re learning, even if it’s small
- Talk to a trusted friend about what you’re experiencing (sometimes God answers through community)
- Read a passage of Scripture each morning – even just one verse can reshape your thinking
- Look for ways to encourage someone else with what you’ve learned
It’s not always easy. There are plenty of days when I just want to be done with the hard stuff. But I’ve noticed those are usually the days when the biggest shifts happen. Listen, you don’t have to have it all figured out. Most people don’t. It’s the simple, honest questions that lead to the breakthrough.
Building a Faith That Lasts Through Every Season
Can I tell you something? Finding purpose in trials doesn’t mean everything suddenly makes sense. I’ve experienced seasons where the lesson didn’t show up until much later. But as I look back, I can see God was weaving things together, even in times when I felt stuck or lost. This is bigger than just getting through a bad day. It’s about letting each season shape you into someone who trusts God more, not less.
And our stories matter. The more we share what we’re learning, the more we build up others who might need a little hope right now. Don’t minimize your experience. Every single lesson, big or small, adds to the greater story God is telling through your life. That’s the heart of finding purpose in trials – seeing that you are not alone, and God is working, even when you can’t see it yet.
Practical Questions to Ask God When You’re in a Hard Season
Here are a few questions to ask (and these have helped me, maybe they’ll help you too):
- What are you building in my character through this?
- Is there something I need to see differently?
- How can I use this season to help someone else?
- What truth from your Word can anchor me in this trial?
- Is there a promise I am missing because I am focused on the problem?
Try writing these down and talking with God over them. No pressure, just honesty. That’s where true growth and connection start.
Staying Connected: Even When You’re Feeling Stuck
Let’s be real. There are times when you just don’t want to talk to anyone, even God. Trust me, I’ve been there. Remember this, though – God hasn’t gone anywhere. He hasn’t stopped loving you. He’s waiting for you to talk to Him, even if it’s just a simple "help." Reading the Bible helps you hear His voice more clearly, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need to keep moving forward. Psalm 119 is a great place to start. If you’re searching for stability, that’s where you’ll find it. His Word is steady. His love doesn’t change, even during rough patches.
Let’s Keep Walking Together and Putting Perspective Into Practice
Finding purpose in trials isn’t something you do once and then you’re done. It’s a daily practice. Every hard season, every unexpected twist, gives you another chance to check in with God and listen for His voice. My encouragement for you? Keep asking, keep listening, and keep your heart open. Even when it hurts. Even when it’s slow.
In our most recent podcast episode, I shared my honest story because I want this to be a space for real conversations. A place where faith meets the ups and downs of everyday life. If you need encouragement, I hope these words remind you that you’re not alone. Together, we get to turn inspiration into action, one practical step at a time. So don’t miss the next episode – I’ll be here, and I’d love to hear your story too.
If you want more encouragement or want to hear my full story on finding purpose in trials, make sure to listen to the "It’s me! Jessica!" podcast episode. And if you know someone who needs a little hope, share this blog with them today. Remember, even a small shift in perspective can lead to a big change in your life. Let’s keep learning together, friend.
For more stories, check out our previous posts on practicing gratitude in everyday life and faith through uncertainty. We are walking this out together.
