Life is a test. When tragedy hits, all of the explanations for why bad things happen in the world are beyond our comprehension. To stay balanced, we need to fall back on what Mark 12:30 tells us: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength."

God doesn't intend for anyone to be a weakling when bad things happen in life. We can avoid that pitfall by being obedient to God. When the storms of life are raging about us, God is always present helping us get through the rough moments. If we hold on to our faith, all will be well.

Loving God wholeheartedly is not given to us as a suggestion. It is a divine command. That means you must never allow yourself to question or blame God, even during trying circumstances.

When your faith is being tested, do not give in to self-pity. Pity parties are a waste of time. Read what happened to Job for a little inspiration. You'll see that God is unchanging love. This is a matter of faith. You may not understand it, but it is true.

In a time of crisis, there will always be the temptation to doubt God's love and become angry. It might even be overpowering at times, but you must not allow yourself to sink into that swamp. Believe in God's love.

Unchecked anger and negative feelings pull you down deeper into fear and doubt. Turn to Jesus, cling to Jesus. Indulging your upset emotions will only keep you stewing in anger.

Force yourself to think of others. Ask, "How is my behavior affecting my family? Am I spreading misery all around, or am I sparing others as best I can?" Put on the will to love God, and the cloud of distress will evaporate.

You can love others by setting a good example. Demonstrate what real faith is like when times are tough. Stop complaining. Be brave. You may be wobbly at first because you're only human, but after a reasonable period of adjustment, stop being a burden to others. Patients should be charitable to their caretakers. It's a Christian duty.

A strong belief in God's majesty will help you to love God in all circumstances. The act of love is easier than you think.

We all want to go to heaven, don't we? And God wants us to attain heaven. But isn't it true that nobody dies healthy. Sickness and accidents all are part of life. We must trust in God's love even in those moments.

Evil happens in this world, not because God wills it. He only allows it. God is always in charge, and he draws good out of evil. Even though there's evil in this world, hold on to your joy.

Joy is not an emotion, it is a decision, such as the will to bear discomfort. Repeat this mantra any time you need to boost your spirit: "I will be joyful. I will be joyful because I have faith, courage and enthusiasm."

FATHER CATOIR IS A COLUMNIST WITH THE CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE.



- FATHER CATOIR IS AN AUTHOR, FORMER HOST OF “THE CHRISTOPHERS” TV PROGRAM, AND A CATHOLIC PRIEST FOR OVER 55 YEARS.